Tailored Sticky Solutions: 3D-Printed Miconazole Buccal Films for Pediatric Oral Candidiasus
Researchers have developed a novel approach to treating pediatric oral candidiasis using 3D-printed buccal films loaded with miconazole. Utilizing a semi-solid extrusion method, they engineered films from a zein-PVP polymer blend that ensures controlled drug release and strong adhesion to buccal tissues. The study reveals that these films offer a dual advantage: precise dosing and enhanced patient compliance, which are critical for effective antifungal therapy in children. The films disintegrate within 10 minutes, releasing approximately 80% of the drug over two hours, ensuring sustained antifungal activity. This innovative treatment strategy provides a promising alternative to traditional antifungal gels and tablets, improving therapeutic outcomes in pediatric patients while also contributing to advancements in personalized medicine.
According to Dr. Katsamenis the μ-VIS Centre at the University of Southampton, who led the X-ray microtopographic analysis: "X-ray microfocus Computed Tomography (μCT) plays a crucial role in studies like this, offering essential insights into the microstructure of specimens and the microstructural changes during dissolution process. In our research, we employed both static and time-lapsed μCT imaging, using 10 × back-to-back scans, to visualise and quantify the dissolution mechanisms of these novel dosage forms in remarkable detail. This allowed us to closely observe the hydration and decomposition process. When combined with other characterisation techniques, our findings demonstrate that 3D-printed films present a highly promising alternative for the localised administration in the oral cavity."
Video Presentation
Publication
Chachlioutaki, K., Iordanopoulou, A., Katsamenis, O.L. et al. Tailored Sticky Solutions: 3D-Printed Miconazole Buccal Films for Pediatric Oral Candidiasis. AAPS PharmSciTech 25, 190 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1208/s12249-024-02908-5
Research Center
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
Department of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology
Laboratory of Animal Food Products Hygiene, Veterinary Public Health, School of Veterinary Medicine
Department of Oral Medicine/Pathology, School of Dentistry
Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH)
University of Southampton, UK
μ-VIS X-Ray Imaging Centre (https://muvis.org)
Institute for Life Sciences
International Hellenic University, Greece
School of Science and Technology
Department of Food Science and Technology
University of Patras, Greece
Department of Materials Science
Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Greece
Institute of Chemical Engineering and High Temperature Chemical Processes