Design, formulation and evaluation of a mucoadhesive gel from Quercus brantii L. and coriandrum sativum L. as periodontal drug delivery

BACKGROUND: Periodontitis is inflammation of the supporting tissues of the teeth caused by specific microorganisms. Intra-periodontal pocket, mucoadhesive drug delivery systems have been shown to be clinically effective in the treatment of periodontitis. The aim of this study was to formulate a mucoadhesive gel from the seed hull of Quercus brantii and fruits of Coriandrum sativum for the treatment of periodontitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The semisolid concentrated extracts were incorporated in gel base. Mucoadhesive gels were prepared using carbopol 940, sodium carboxymethylcellulose (sodium CMC) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose K4M (HPMC) as bioadhesive polymers. Physicochemical tests, mucoadhesive strength measurement and in vitro drug release study were carried out on two formulations containing carbopol 940 and sodium CMC polymers (Formulations F(4) and F(5)). We investigated the antibacterial activity of formulation F(5) against Porphyromonas gingivalis using the disk diffusion method on supplemented Brucella agar. RESULTS: Eight gel formulations were prepared. Physical appearance, homogeneity and consistency of F(4) and F(5) were good. Mucoadhesion and viscosity of F(5) (1% carbopol 940 and 3% sodium CMC) was more than F(4) (0.5% carbopol 940 and 3% sodium CMC). Drug release from F(5) was slower. Both of formulations were syringeable through 21 G needle. In the disk diffusion method, F(5) produced significant growth inhibition zones against P. gingivalis. CONCLUSION: The ideal formulation for the treatment of periodontitis should exhibit high value of mucoadhesion, show controlled release of drug and be easily delivered into the periodontal pocket preferably using a syringe. Based on in vitro release and mucoadhesion studies, F(5) was selected as the best formulation.