RESUMO
Fungal eye infections are caused mainly by an eye injury and can result in serious eye damage. Fluconazole (FLZ), a broad-spectrum antifungal agent, is a poorly soluble drug with a risk of hepatotoxicity. This work aimed to investigate the antifungal activity, ocular irritation, and transport of FLZ-loaded poly (ε-caprolactone) nanoparticles using a rabbit eye model. Three formulation factors affecting the nanoparticle's size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency were optimized utilizing the Box-Behnken design. Morphological characteristics and antifungal activity of the optimized nanoparticles were studied. The optimized nanoparticles were loaded into thermosensitive in situ hydrogel and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) hydrogel ophthalmic formulations. The rheological behavior, in vitro release and in vivo corneal transport were investigated. Results revealed that the percentage of poly (ε-caprolactone) in the nanoparticle matrix, polymer addition rate, and mixing speed significantly affected the particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency. The optimized nanoparticles were spherical in shape and show an average size of 145 nm, a zeta potential of -28.23 mV, and a FLZ entrapment efficiency of 98.2%. The antifungal activity of FLZ-loaded nanoparticles was significantly higher than the pure drug. The developed ophthalmic formulations exhibited a pseudoplastic flow, prolonged the drug release and were found to be non-irritating to the cornea. The prepared FLZ pegylated nanoparticles were able to reach the posterior eye segment without eye irritation. As a result, the developed thermosensitive in situ hydrogel formulation loaded with FLZ polymeric nanoparticles is a promising drug delivery strategy for treating deep fungal eye infections.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Although cosmetic products such as sunscreens and moisturizers are generally considered safe, they can be less effective or harmful if used improperly. Thus, pharmacist's awareness about cosmeceuticals is pivotal in counseling about the ingredients and the proper use of such products. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the awareness level of community pharmacists regarding cosmetic products particularly sunscreens and moisturizers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study conducted on 310 community pharmacists in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in the duration (June-November 2019). RESULTS: With respect to the level of awareness toward sunscreen products, 74% of the participants demonstrated a clear understanding of Sun Protection Factor (SPF). In terms of sunscreen counseling and the impact of these products on drug-induced photosensitivity, the average awareness of participants was 62% and 55%, respectively. However, only 16% of participants were aware of the expiry date. The average pharmacist's knowledge of the expiration date of the moisturizers and the proper use/ingredients was 86% and 58%, respectively, while only 42% of participants responded correctly to the instructions for application of moisturizers. Cross-tabulation between the level of education and the need to acquire knowledge about cosmetics has shown that the majority of pharmacists has indicated that they need more knowledge about cosmetics. CONCLUSION: Around 53% of community pharmacists are aware about the sunscreen part, while 62% have the knowledge about moisturizers. Hence, more cosmetic courses and workshops are recommended to raise level of awareness.