Formulation and Evaluation of in Situ Mucoadhesive Ophthalmic Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Pefloxacin Mesylate

Objective: The drawback associated with conventional eye drops needs development of novel ophthalmic delivery system with improved bioavailability and patient compliances. The objective of present work was to develop and evaluate mucoadhesive in situ ocular gel of Pefloxacin mesylate based on the concept of ion activated in situ gelation for the prolonged precorneal residence time. Methods: Formulations were prepared using Sodium Alginate as gelling agent and Hydroxy ethyl cellulose as mucoadhesive agent. Gels were evaluated for gelling capacity, bio adhesion force, rheological property, ex vivo and in vitro release profile for selection of optimized formulation. Results: Developed formulations with satisfactory clarity, pH, drug content, gelling capacity, viscosity and bio adhesion were selected for ex vivo and in vitro release studies. An optimum formulation which could sustain the release for 12hours was finalized for further evaluations like; antimicrobial efficacy and irritation test. Formulations were found to be non irritant, effective against the test organisms and exhibited Zero order release pattern and pseudoplastic rheology. Conclusion: The developed system with sodium alginate and hydroxyl ethyl cellulose can be a feasible alternative to conventional eye drops.