Sustained-release hydrogels of ivermectin as alternative systems to improve the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis

ROMERO, ANALÍA I.; CID, ALICIA G.; MINETTI, NICOLÁS E.; BRIONES NIEVA, CINTIA A; GARCÍA BUSTOS, MARÍA F.; GONZO, ELIO E.; VILLEGAS, MERCEDES; BERMÚDEZ, JOSÉ M.

Therapeutic Delivery

Future Medicine Ltd.

Lugar: London; Año: 2020 vol. 11 p. 779 - 790

2041-5990

Background: Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease and its cutaneous form manifests as ulcers or nodules, generally in exposed parts of the body. This work aimed to develop ivermectin (IVM) thermosensitive hydrogels as topical formulations to improve cutaneous leishmaniasis treatment. Materials & methods: Hydrogels based on poloxamers 407 and 188 with different concentrations of IVM were prepared and rheologically characterized. The IVM release profiles were obtained and mathematically analyzed using the Lumped model. Results: The formulation containing 1.5% w/w of IVM presented an adequate gelling temperature, an optimal complex viscosity and elastic modulus. Hydrogels allowed to modulate the release of IVM. Conclusion: IVM thermosensitive hydrogels can be considered a valuable alternative to improve the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis.