The physicodynamic properties of mucoadhesive polymeric films developed as female controlled drug delivery system

To develop an efficient female controlled drug delivery system (FcDDS) against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), the polymeric films containing sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) were prepared with various compositions of Carbopol 934P, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and polyethylene glycol (PEG). The physicochemical properties of mucoadhesive polymeric films, such as tensile strength, contact angle, swelling ratio and erosion rate in a vaginal fluid stimulant (VFS), were characterized. In addition, the drug release profile of SDS from the films and mucosal residence time were evaluated using a simulated dynamic vaginal system. It was demonstrated that the films made of Carbopol, HPMC and PEG were colorless, thin and soft and had proper physicodynamic properties for FcDDS. An increase in Carbopol content elevated tensile strength and swelling ratio but decreased the contact angle, erosion rate and the SDS release rate from the films. The films containing 0.25% (w/v) PEG as well as 0.75% (w/v) of combining Carbopol and HPMC remained on the vaginal tissue for up to 6 h. The films containing the ratio of Carbopol:HPMC:PEG = 1.5:1.5:1 and 1:2:1 seem to be optimal compositions for FcDDS, as they showed good peelability, relatively high swelling index and moderate tensile strength, and achieved the target release rate of SDS for 6 h.