Mucoadhesive, triclosan-loaded polymer microspheres for application to the oral cavity: preparation and controlled release characteristics.

The aim of this study was to develop mucoadhesive microspheres that can be utilised for the controlled release of triclosan in oral-care formulations, specifically dental pastes. Using a double-emulsion solvent evaporation technique, triclosan was incorporated into microspheres that were prepared from Gantreztrade mark MS-955, Carbopol 974P, polycarbophil or chitosan and the profiles for its release were established under simulated 'in use' conditions. Triclosan was rapidly released into a sodium lauryl sulphate containing buffer from all but the chitosan microspheres.

In situ evaluation of drug-loaded microspheres on a mucosal surface under dynamic test conditions.

The ability of polymeric microspheres fabricated from Carbopol, polycarbophil, chitosan or Gantrez to retain a model hydrophilic drug (sodium fluorescein) was evaluated in situ, using a dynamic test system and image analysis. This technique used oesophageal tissues and simulated the physiological conditions within the oral cavity in terms of temperature, humidity and saliva flow. The point of sample application was observed over a 2h period by means of a digital camera.

Polymeric microspheres for drug delivery to the oral cavity: an in vitro evaluation of mucoadhesive potential.

Polymeric microparticles were fabricated from Carbopol, polycarbophil, chitosan, or Gantrez using a "water-in-oil emulsification" solvent evaporation method. Mean particle sizes, as determined by laser diffraction, were in the range 23-38 microm. Electron microscopy revealed that all microparticles were spherical and of smooth surface morphology.

A direct-staining method to evaluate the mucoadhesion of polymers from aqueous dispersion.

A novel technique to evaluate polymer adhesion to human buccal cells following exposure to aqueous polymer dispersion, both in vitro and in vivo, is described. Adhering polymer has been visualised by staining with 0.1% (w/v) of either Alcian blue (60 min) or Eosin (10 min) solution, uncomplexed dye being removed by 0.