Multifunctional Bilayer Wound Dressing Composed of Immediate Release Layer of Ofloxacin and Sustained Release Layer of Bergamot Oil

Background: Wound healing is a typical biological process that the human body accomplishes through well-defined stages. The complexity of the healing process continues to be a significant health challenge. Multifunctional polymeric bilayer wound dressings have emerged as a new treatment option, as they resemble the bilayer structure of skin. Methods: Here, we developed a bilayer film with two distinct features, i.e., a primary sodium alginate (Na-Alg)-based sustained release layer incorporated with bergamot essential oil (BEO) and a secondary immediate release layer of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) loaded with the antibacterial drug ofloxacin (OFX). Using the double solvent casting technique. Results: The resultant bilayer films exhibited good folding endurance and swelling capability. The antibacterial potential was appraised by assessing their capability to hinder the growth of S. aureus (40 mm zone of inhibition) and E. coli (46 mm zone of inhibition). A DPPH assay confirmed the anti-oxidant ability of the incorporated essential oil. The outcomes of the X-ray diffraction and FTIR analysis support the even and complete dispersion of the oil and drug into the polymeric matrix without any unwanted interaction. The SEM results revealed a slightly microstructured surface view, while microporous structures were discovered in the cross-section due to the presence of the oil and drug. In the in vivo wound model, the developed bilayer films demonstrated a quicker rate of wound closure (98.5% in 12 days) and avoided wound infection. Histological studies verified that the created dressing enhanced the deposition of mature collagen and promoted epithelialization. Conclusions: As a result, the unique blend of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties in bilayer films can significantly offer fresh perspectives for developing sophisticated, multipurpose wound dressings to hasten the healing of cutaneous wounds.