Intranasal administration of innovative triamcinolone acetonide encapsulated cubosomal in situ gel: formulation and characterization

Abstract

Aim

The primary objective of the research was to develop a cubosomal in situ gel encapsulated with Triamcinolone acetonide (TCA) in order to enhance its penetration through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) when administered via the intranasal route, thus enabling efficient and rapid action.

Method

Cubosomes were formulated by top-down approach using glyceryl monooleate (GMO), using pluronics127 (PF127) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) in varying proportions based on the Box-Behnken design. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) analysis confirmed the morphology of the cubosomes. The in situ gel was formulated and optimized. Experiments involving ex vivo permeation and histopathology analyses were undertaken to evaluate drug permeation and tissue effects.

Results

The cubosomes exhibited a particle size (PS) of 197.9 nm, zeta potential (ZP) of −31.11 mV, and entrapment efficacy (EE) of 84.31%, with low deviation. Batch F4 (19% PF127) showed favorable results. In vitro and ex vivo permeation studies revealed drug release of 78.59% and 76.65%, respectively, after 8 h. Drug release followed the Hixson Crowell model of release kinetics. The histopathological examination revealed no signs of toxicity or adverse effects on the nasal mucosa of the sheep. The formulation exhibited short-term stability, maintaining its integrity and properties when stored at room temperature.

Conclusion

The utilization of an intranasal cubosomal in situ gel encapsulated with TCA was anticipated to lower intracranial pressure and improve patient adherence by offering effective relief for individuals suffering from Brain edema. This efficacy is attributed to its rapid onset of action and its safe and well-tolerated dosage form.

Keywords:

• Cubosomes
• intranasal
• triamcinolone acetonide
• brain edema
• in situ gel

Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank Anhu Pharma ltd., Mumbai, for providing Triamcinolone Acetonide as a gift sample. We gratefully acknowledge the Department of Pharmaceutics, KLE College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, for providing the necessary resources for this study.

Disclosure statement

The authors declare that no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.