Utilization of ionotropic gelation method for targeting an Anti-viral nanoparticulate gel at the corneal surface for management of Varicella zoster viral infection

The objective of the present work was to develop nanoparticulate gel of Acyclovir to enhance its residence time at ocular surface and release the drug in sustained manner for prolonged period.Initially, nanoparticles of selected drug was prepared.For that, Acyclovir and PLGA (100 to 400 mg) was taken in 1:1 ratio.The prepared nanoparticles were evaluated for entrapment efficiency, particle size & zeta potential, PDI, surface morphology and in-vitro drug release.The optimized formulation was then converted into gel by using Poloxamer 407 and Carbopol 940, thermo-responsive gelling agents.It was found that prepared formulation was clear.The pH value of the formulation was found nearly similar with lacrimal environment.The prepared gel formulation showed sustained drug release for a period of 12 h.The formulation was clear with pH value of 7.4.From the stability studies, it was revealed that optimized nanoparticulate gel formulation of Acyclovir (ACT) was remained stable at given conditions of temperature and humidity.Hence the research work, in reference, comprised of quite novel approaches of investigations.1.