Development of monolithic matrix type transdermal patches containing cinnarizine: Physical characterization and permeation studies

To overcome the problems associated with bioavailability and systemic side effects of the drug by oral administration, monolithic matrix type transdermal patches containing cinnarizine (CNZ) were developed. For this purpose, films based on hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and polyvinylpyrrolidone as matrix-forming polymers were designed. Physical characteristics of transdermal films and drug-excipient compatibility were investigated. Factors affecting in vitro drug release and ex vivo skin penetration and permeation of the drug were studied. It was confirmed that films displayed sufficient flexibility and mechanical strength for application onto the skin for a long time period. Ex vivo penetration experiments gave satisfactory results for transdermal drug delivery through rat skin. The parameters determining good skin penetration were also evaluated. The highest drug permeation rate was obtained with incorporation of Transcutol® (0.102 mg/cm2/h) into the base CNZ formulation, followed by propylene glycol (0.063 mg/cm2/h), menthol (0.045 mg/cm2/h), and glycerin (0.021 mg/cm2/h) as penetration enhancers (p < 0.05). As a result, the developed transdermal patches of CNZ may introduce an alternative treatment for various conditions and diseases such as idiopathic urticarial vasculitis, Ménière's disease, motion sickness, nausea, and vertigo. Thus, the risk of systemic side effects caused by the drug can be reduced or eliminated

Investigation of anti-cancer effects of cherry in vitro

Cherry [Prunus Cerasus] is still one of the most popular preserve in Turkish cuisine. Cherry has been traditionally used for the treatment of inflammatory-related symptoms. Recent researches have proved that cherry is a valuable natural source of some important bioactive compounds in human health preservation. Evidence suggests that, cherry consumption may decrease the risk of chronic diseases and cancer. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of cherry on breast cancer cells lines, asymmetric dimethylarginine [ADMA] level and certain multidrugresistant bacteria. The cancer cell proliferation activity and analysis of apoptotic-necrotic cells was evaluated by using the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide [MTT] and scoring of apoptotic cell nuclei. Measurement of ADMA and the minimum inhibitory concentration was accomplished by HPLC and the micro dilution broth method. The results showed that, extracts of cherry exhibit anti-proliferative activity in mammary adenocarcinoma [MCF-7] and mouse mammary tumor cell [4T1] breast cancer cells lines as well as induction of apoptosis, lower ADMA concentrations in cell cultures treated with cherry extract and antibacterial effects against certain multidrug-resistant bacteria in vitro. These findings may open new horizons for traditional anti-inflammatory product as prophylactictherapeutic agent from cancer, cardiovascular diseases and multidrug-resistant infections.