NOVEL DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR MANAGEMENT OF S.AUREUS INFECTIONS IN PATIENTS SUFFERING VENOUS STASIS ULCERS

Abstract

Local disinfection of stasis ulcers using topical application of povidone iodine (PVP-I) has been reported to be a superior treatment regimen compared to the use of systemic antibiotics. However, contact burns and irritant dermatitis associated with sudden release of large quantities of PVP-I from bandages are a major drawback attributed to the use of this antiseptic. The current study investigates the use of niosomes as micro reservoirs aiding in the slow gradual release of this drug. S.aureus, one of the most common etiological agents associated with stasis ulcers, was chosen as the test organism. Niosomes prepared by thin film hydration technique were characterized using scanning electron microscope and nanoparticle analyzer. Zeta potential of the prepared niosomes was found to be -5.6mV. FTIR studies demonstrated no chemical alteration of the drug subsequent to its encapsulation. Polydispersity index of 0.541 revealed good homogeneity of the prepared formulation. Minimum inhibitory concentration of S.aureus by micro broth dilution technique was found to be 0.30% w/v of available iodine. The entrapment efficiency of PVP-I was found to be 80%. Further, an ex vivo goat skin model used to study the drug release profile revealed the bactericidal effect to extend over 35 hours, thus demonstrating the ability of niosomes to delay drug release.