Ex-vivo permeation of enrofloxacin through shed skin of Python molurus bivittatus, as evaluated with a Franz cell

Current treatment options for snake infections are straightforward for experienced veterinarians, but are less so for non-veterinarian snake owners. In this study, we analysed the in-vitro permeation of an antibiotic, enrofloxacin, administered percutaneously to the shed skin of a snake (Python molurus bivittatus) using a Franz cell. The test formulation was based on the incorporation of enrofloxacin (5 wt %) into a commercial vehicle, Pentravan® cream. This cream is a hydrophilic emulsion that uses liposomal technology to promote transdermal drug delivery. Two different parts of the shed skin were tested; the first part was close to the head and the second part was just before the cloaca. The amount of enrofloxacin absorbed through the skin was assayed by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results seemed to indicate that delivery of enrofloxacin was greater across the skin sampled close to the head than across the skin sampled close to the cloaca. This is due to the lower scale: hinge ratio associated with skin from close to the head. This study confirmed that enrofloxacin can be absorbed through the shed skin of snakes and investigated the percutaneous route as a new option of administering drugs when treating snakes.

Graphical abstractIn-vitro permeation of enrofloxacin administered percutaneously to the shed skin of a snake using a Franz cell was performed. The test formulation was based on the incorporation of enrofloxacin (5% wt) into a commercial vehicle, Pentravan® cream using liposomal technology to ensure reproducible transdermal drug delivery. This study confirmed that enrofloxacin can be absorbed through the shed snake skin and investigated the percutaneous route as a new option of administering drugs when treating reptiles.Download full-size image