Development and bioavailability testing of an estetrol and estetrol-zinc-containing vaginal hydrogel: a novel hydroxyethyl cellulose and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin-based formulation.

Key Points

• The aim is to develop a vaginal hydrogel formulation containing estetrol for improved bioavailability and therapeutic effects.
• Developed a hydrogel formulation using hydroxyethyl cellulose and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin.
• Tested the hydrogel for nontoxicity and bioavailability of estetrol.
• Assessed localized and controlled release properties of the formulation.
• The hydrogel was found to be nontoxic.
• Estetrol exhibited enhanced bioavailability in the formulated hydrogel.
• The formulation allowed for controlled release, optimizing therapeutic efficacy.