A novel vaginal drug delivery system: anti-HIV bioadhesive film containing abacavir

Women are very much susceptible for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), mainly due to unprotected heterosexual vaginal intercourse and for some other social and economical disadvantages. Our aim was to formulate and optimize vaginal film of abacavir, a potent nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, for the treatment of AIDS and HIV. Abacavir films were prepared by solvent evaporation method using sodium alginate (Na-alginate) as the main polymer, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose E 15 (HPMC E 15) as the copolymer and glycerol as a humectant. Abacavir sulphate (ABC) was used here as a drug. Films were optimized for various physicochemical parameters such as tensile strength, % elongation at break, swelling capacity, drug content (mg/cm(2)), thickness, folding endurance, bioadhesion, pH, moisture content and SEM. Drug polymer interaction was studied by FTIR Spectra. The drug release study was accomplished in dissolution apparatus. In vivo study was also carried out. This newly formed film was one kind of sustain release type and can be considered as a novel drug carrier system for the treatment of AIDS and other STDs. It was suitable for local as well as systemic effect. The films showed good physicochemical property with good aesthetic appeal.