Cubosomal functionalized block copolymer platform for dual delivery of linagliptin and empagliflozin: Recent advances in synergistic strategies for maximizing control of high-risk type II diabetes

A well-made chitosan-PVP block copolymer platform was equipped with highly ordered and uniform nano-channels. This highly adhesive block copolymer platform was designed to ensure the efficient co-delivery of two synergistic-acting hypoglycemic drugs. Linagliptin oral bioavailability is 30% due to poor permeability and intestinal degradation. Its pharmacokinetics shows a non-linear profile. Empagliflozin exhibited decreased permeability and decreased solubility in aqueous media between pH 1 and 7.5. Cubosomes were functionalized as a good microdomain to guest and improve the physicochemical characteristics of drug molecules with decreased permeability and solubility. Cubosomes loaded with linagliptin (linagliptin cubosomes (LCs)) and empagliflozin (empagliflozin cubosomes ECs) were separately prepared using the top-down method and optimized by applying 23 factorial design. Optimized cubosomal systems LCs (F3) and ECs (F4) were incorporated into a chitosan-PVP gel to obtain dual cubosome-loaded platforms (LECF) optimized through 22 factorial design. The permeation study from the optimized LECF (C1) ensured enhanced empagliflozin permeation alongside continued efflux for linagliptin, resolving potential risks due to its non-linear plasma profile. The in-vivo study revealed that AUC(0-∞) of linagliptin and empagliflozin was enhanced by 2- and threefold, respectively. Therefore, the chitosan-PVP block copolymer platform buccal application for the co-delivery of linagliptin and empagliflozin could contribute to enhanced clinical effectiveness in treating diabetes.

Formulation of tretinoin-loaded topical proniosomes for treatment of acne: in-vitro characterization, skin irritation test and comparative clinical study

Tretinoin (TRT) is a widely used retinoid for the topical treatment of acne, photo-aged skin, psoriasis and skin cancer which makes it a good candidate for topical formulation. Yet side effects, like redness, swelling, peeling, blistering and, erythema, in addition to its high lipophilicity make this challenging. Therefore, the aim of this study was the development of TRT-loaded proniosomes to improve the drug efficacy and to increase user acceptability and compliance by reducing its side effects. Nine formulae were prepared according to 3(2) factorial design and were evaluated for their morphology, vesicle size, entrapment efficiency (EE %), and% of drug released after 5 h. Hydrogel of the candidate formula, N8G (proniosomes prepared with 0.025% TRT, and Span60: cholesterol molar ratio of 3:1 and incorporated in 1% carbopol gel) was developed and evaluated for skin irritation test and clinical study in acne patients compared to marketed product. Candidate formula showed higher efficacy and very low irritation potential when compared to marketed product in human volunteers.