Film Forming Systems for Delivery of Active Molecules into and across the Skin

Abstract

We have investigated delivery systems that can form a structured matrix film on the skin after their application. In a previous work, we have shown that Weblike film forming systems (also called Pouches Drug Delivery Systems, PDDS) enable enhanced skin delivery of the incorporated molecules. These delivery systems are composed of one or more phospholipids, a short-chain alcohol, a polymer and optionally water. In this work, we continue the investigation and characterization of Weblike carriers focusing on some factors affecting the delivery properties such as components concentration and mode of application on the skin. Upon non-occluded application on the skin, the systems dry rapidly, forming a web-like structured film. Lidocaine, Ibuprofen, FITC and Cannabidiol are molecules with various physico-chemical properties that were incorporated in the carrier. The systems were tested in a number of in vitro and in vivo experiments. Results of the in vitro permeation of Ibuprofen through porcine skin indicated two-fold delivery through the skin of Ibuprofen when applied from our Weblike system in comparison with a nanovesicular carrier, the ethosome. We also have investigated weblike systems containing hemp seed oil (HSO). This addition enhanced the film’s ability to deliver lipophilic molecules to the deeper skin layers, leading to an improved pharmacodynamic effect. In analgesic tests carried out in a pain mice model following one hour application of CBD in Weblike system with and without HSO, the number of writhing episodes was decreased from 29 in the untreated animals to 9.5 and 18.5 writhes, respectively. The results of our work open the way towards a further investigation of Weblike film forming systems containing drugs for improved dermal and transdermal treatment of various ailments.