Abstract
Purpose: Binary polymeric systems containing poloxamer 407 (P407) and Carbopol 934P (C934P) were designed to deliver propolis extract (PE) or sildenafil citrate for the endodontic treatment (pulp protection).
Methods: Gelation temperature, rheology (flow), bioadhesion, and in vitro drug release of formulations were determined.
Results: Formulations showed thermoresponsive behavior, existing as a liquid at room temperature and gel at 34–37°C. In addition, they exhibited pseudoplastic flow and low degrees of thixotropy or rheopexy. The greatest bioadhesion was noted in the formulation containing 20% P407 (w/w) and 0.10% C934P (w/w). PE release from formulation containing 15% P407 (w/w) and 0.25% C934P (w/w) was controlled by the phenomenon of relaxation of polymer chains. Moreover, sildenafil release from formulation containing 20% P407 (w/w) and 0.10% C934P (w/w) was controlled by Fickian diffusion.
Conclusion: The data obtained on these formulations indicate a potentially useful role in the endodontic treatment (pulp protection) and suggest they are worthy of clinical evaluation.
Acknowledgements
The authors wish to thank CAPES (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior), CNPq (Conselho Nacional de Pesquisa) and FINEP (Financiadora de Estudos e Projetos) of Brazil.
Declaration of interest
The authors report no declarations of interest.