Formulation and Optimization of Gemifloxacin-Loaded Transdermal Patches for Enhanced Systemic Bioavailability

This study aimed to formulate and evaluate matrix-type transdermal patches of Gemifloxacin to achieve sustained and effective drug delivery. Preformulation studies, including UV-visible spectroscopy, established the maximum absorption wavelength () of Gemifloxacin at 271 nm, and a standard calibration curve was successfully constructed. Compatibility studies using FTIR and DSC confirmed that the pure drug is compatible with the selected polymers, showing no unexpected chemical interactions or degradation. Nine transdermal patch formulations (F1 to F9) were prepared using varying concentrations of polymers such as Eudragit-L100, Eudragit-S100, and Eudragit RSPO. The prepared patches were evaluated for physicochemical parameters including weight variation, thickness, folding endurance, flatness, and percentage drug content, all of which met acceptable pharmacopeial standards. In vitro diffusion studies demonstrated that drug release is dependent on polymer concentration. Among all formulations, F3 (formulated with Eudragit-L100) emerged as the optimized formulation, successfully passing all evaluation parameters with optimal drug permeation and stability. Zeta potential analysis of the F3 formulation indicated good stability and a smooth surface character. Furthermore, drug release kinetics revealed that the optimized patch followed the zero-order release model. Overall, the study successfully demonstrates the viability of Eudragit-L100 matrix-type transdermal patches for the effective delivery of Gemifloxacin.