Formulation and Evaluation of Apigenin Loaded Herbal Mucoadhesive Buccal Patch for the Treatment of Mouth Ulcers

The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate an apigenin-loaded herbal mucoadhesive buccal patch for the treatment of mouth ulcers. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) was used as a film-forming polymer, while glycerin and PEG-400 served as plasticizers and propylene glycol as a permeation enhancer. Buccal patches were prepared by the solvent casting method and evaluated for physicochemical parameters including surface pH, thickness, folding endurance, drug content uniformity, swelling index, and in vitro drug release. The optimized formulation showed satisfactory physicochemical properties with sustained drug release (49.0% at 4 h). Drug release kinetics followed the Higuchi model, indicating diffusion-controlled release. Korsmeyer–Peppas analysis showed an n value of 0.62, confirming non Fickian transport. The developed formulation demonstrated effective mucoadhesion, flexibility, and non-irritant characteristics, making it a promising system for localized treatment of mouth ulcers.