Development and Characterization of Voriconazole Loaded In Situ Gel Formulations for Ophthalmic Application

The aim of the this research was to prepare and evaluate the potential use of in situ gel formulations for ocular delivery of voriconazole for the treatment of fungal keratitis. An in situ gelling system was used to increase the residence time and thus the bioavailability of voriconazole in ocular mucosa. Temperature triggered in situ gel formulations were prepared by cold method using polymers like poloxamer 188, poloxamer 407 and sodium alginate. Finally, concentration of voriconazole in formulations was 0.1% (w/w). These formulations were evaluated for clarity, sol-gel transition temperature, gelling capacity, pH, viscosity and drug content. The gelation temperatures of all the formulations were within the range of 32-34°C. All the formulations exhibited fairly uniform drug content. Furthermore in vitro drug release and antifungal activity of these formulations were also evaluated. Drug release study of all the formulations showed sustained release properties. In conclusion, voriconazole loaded in situ gels could be offered as a promising strategy for ocular drug delivery for the treatment of fungal keratiti