The effect of polymeric films of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)/chitosan on ofloxacin release, diffusion, and biological activity

Abstract

Infectious diseases caused by resistant bacteria have been investigated by several researchers recently. Ofloxacin is a quinolone antibiotic used against resistant microorganisms and in different routes of administration. Transdermal drug delivery is used to reduce drug toxicity, avoid first‐pass metabolism, and reduce fluctuations in drug concentration in the body. Ofloxacin was formulated in a transdermal polymeric formula using hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and chitosan at different ratios in the presence of palmitic acid as a permeation enhancer. Physical characterization, drug release and diffusion, drug matrix association, and antimicrobial assay have been investigated using different techniques including HPLC, fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Franz cells diffusion, and UV spectroscopy. Ofloxacin release was successfully accomplished in many polymeric formulas containing a high ratio of HPMC with a maximum drug release of 53%. Formulas selected for antimicrobial assay indicate that sustained release patches have successfully inhibited microbial and biofilm growth with a percentage inhibition of more than 90%. In conclusion, antibiotics can be formulated in transdermal polymeric film to target skin infection and reduce drug toxicity and avoid drug first metabolism for drugs reaching systemic circulation which has a direct influence on drug activity.