Formulation, characterization, in vitro, in vivo, and histopathological evaluation of transdermal drug delivery containing norfloxacin and Curcuma longa

OBJECTIVE: In an attempt for better treatment of bacterial infections and burn wounds, semisolid formulations containing norfloxacin (NF) and natural wound healing agent Curcuma longa were prepared. The rationale behind employing combination of NF and Curcuma longa is to obtain synergistic wound healing effect. The prepared formulations were compared with silver sulfadiazine cream 1%, USP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Various ointments containing NF and C. longa were prepared using standard procedures. These formulations were evaluated for antimicrobial activity against various strains of aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms. The wound healing property was evaluated by histopathological examination and by measuring the wound contraction. RESULTS: The significant antimicrobial and wound healing effects were demonstrated by formulations which are comparable with silver sulfadiazine 1% cream (P < 0.05). Various morphological changes were observed by histopathology during the study period (days 1, 4, 8, and 12) which also supported the wound healing process. CONCLUSION: Based on the observed antimicrobial and wound healing effects, the formulations containing combination of NF and Curcuma longa could be employed as an alternative to commercial silver sulfadiazine 1% cream. This innovative mode of formulation can be employed for making burn wound healing process more effective.