Fluconazole Microsponges Loaded Bioadhesive Vaginal Film to Treat Vulvovaginal Candidiasiss

The purpose of this study was to develop fluconazole microsponges loaded bioadhesive film, rolled into a torpedo-shaped capsule, to achieve ease of application and reduce application frequency for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis. This was accomplished by using biodegradable polymer blend specifically designed to cater the busy lifestyle of working women.

Microsponges were prepared using the quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method. Herein, fluconazole: ethyl cellulose (1:2.5, 1:3, 1:3.5) and polyvinyl alcohol (used as the external phase) were dissolved in dichloromethane (12.5, 15, 17.5 ml). Three-level, two-factor full-factorial design optimized the above process. Next, the developed microsponges were thoroughly evaluated for entrapment efficiency, drug release and antimicrobial study. Lastly, film was developed which was made up of blend of bioadhesive polymers, namely pectin and xanthan gum. Subsequently, film was rolled into a torpedo-shaped capsule shell.

The spherical-shaped porous microsponges exhibited a notable entrapment efficiency (94.17%), size 14.68 μm and rapid drug release of 91.1 ± 1.54% within 10 h. Further, bioadhesive film revealed thickness 92 μm, folding endurance 440, moisture content 5.66 ± 0.51% w/w, and good tensile strength to withstand vaginal pressure and remarkable zone of inhibition against Candida albicans (19.1 mm).

Fluconazole microsponges loaded bioadhesive film, rolled into a torpedo-shaped capsule, exhibited an excellent aesthetic appearance. Moreover, strong bioadhesivity ensured a high efficacy in combating disease.