Preparation and characterization of polymeric cross-linked hydrogel patch for topical delivery of gentamicin

This research aimed to prepare and characterize a new type of polymeric cross-linked topical hydrogel patches for the treatment of wound infections. The free radical polymerization method was used to prepare the topical hydrogel patches by utilizing natural polymers, i.e., agarose and gelatin. These natural polymers were chemically cross-linked with monomer (acrylic acid) using ammonium persulfate as an initiator via the cross-linker N,N methylene bisacrylamide. An antibiotic, i.e., gentamicin sulfate was loaded into a designed polymeric system. The polymeric cross-linked topical hydrogel patches were made in a spherical shape, which was revealed to be stable and elastic. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray powder diffraction investigation were used to characterize the topical hydrogel patches. Polymeric cross-linked hydrogel patches were evaluated for their sol-gel analysis, swelling studies, in vitro drug release studies against pH 5.5, 6.5, and 7.4, ex vivo drug permeation, and the deposition study on the rabbit's skin by using a Franz diffusion cell. In addition, the skin irritation study and wound healing performance of drug-loaded topical patches were also assessed and compared to commercially available formulations. The topical hydrogel patches were found to be non-irritating to the skin for up to 72 h as determined by a Draize patch test and when compared to marketed formulations, these topical patches resulted in faster wound healing. The prepared formulation showed promising potential for the treatment of skin wound infection.