CHARACTERIZATION OF NEOMYCIN-LOADED XANTHAN-CHITOSAN HYDROGELS FOR TOPICAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract

Xanthan-chitosan hydrogels are recommended for encapsulation and controlled release of therapeutic agents. Chitosan and neomycin sulphate have been shown to have wound healing properties, when used individually, and a synergetic effect when used together. In this study, drug-loaded xanthan-chitosan hydrogels were prepared with two different neomycin sulphate concentrations, as potential topical formulations. These hydrogels were characterized by rheological studies, thermal analyses, for in vitro drug release diffusion, cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity. The results obtained from dynamic rheological experiments demonstrated that the hydrogels behave as weak gels and that their characteristics are strongly influenced by the concentration, pH and temperature. The results provided by thermal analysis suggested that an interaction occurs between xanthan-chitosan and neomycin sulphate. In vitro studies demonstrated good retardation of drug release from the hydrogels. Moreover, cell viability studies showed that the hydrogels are non-cytotoxic. Furthermore, the prepared formulations revealed effective bacterial inhibition when exposed to cultures of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.