Development and Evaluation of In Situ Gel Formation for Treatment of Mouth Ulcer.

Objectives: Mouth ulcers are one of the most prevalent conditions that can be caused by a range of circumstances. Many formulations, such as solutions, suspensions, and ointments are available commercially. However, because there is no long-term effect, no medication can be regarded as totally effective for treating mouth ulcers. The use of bioadhesive methods can boost the therapy efficacy. Because it is easier to administer than prepared gel formulations, the phenomenon of the sol-to-gel conversion can be beneficial. The major goal of this study was to develop and test in situ gels for treating mouth ulcers using choline salicylate and borax as model medicines.

Materials and methods: Because a thermosensitive polymer was employed in this formulation, the sol-to-gel change was thermally reversible, and the frequency of administration was reduced by using the mucoadhesive polymer carbopol. Gelation temperature, pH, gel strength, spreadability, in vitro mucoadhesion, and in vitro drug release were all measured in the formulations.

Results: The experimental section indicated that viscosity of sols and gel strength increased with increasing temperature, i.e., gel can be created at the site of application owing to body temperature. When poloxamer 407 was used at a concentration of 14 to 16 percent w/v, the gelling temperature was close to the body temperature (35-38 °C), but when carbopol 934P was added, the gelling temperature was raised. All formulations had pH between 5.5 and 6.8. All formulations had viscosities of less than 1000 cps, allowing for simple administration of the formulation to a mouth ulcer.

Conclusion: As a result, a correctly developed in situ gel for oral ulcers can extend the duration spent at the application site and minimize the frequency of administration. These findings show that the developed technology is a viable alternative to traditional drug delivery systems and can help patients comply.