Recent updates on ocular disease management with ophthalmic ointments.

Ophthalmic diseases can result in permanent vision loss and blindness. Convenient topical and systemic treatments are preferred to address these sight-threatening conditions. However, the unique anatomy of the eye presents challenges for drug delivery. Various ophthalmic ointment formulations have been developed to enhance bioavailability in the eye to prolong residence time and improve corneal permeability. This article explores a wide range of ocular diseases affecting individuals globally and how ointments are used to manage them. From eye to ocular barriers, this review focuses on published scientific research and formulation strategies for severe ocular complications using conventional topical ointments. Additionally, it delves through patented technologies and marketed formulations supporting the use of ointments in ocular drug delivery.

Eye illnesses can cause blindness. The treatment is tricky due to eye's complex makeup. This paper talks about eye ointments also known as 'creams' or 'pomades' used to deliver medicine to the eye. These creams make the medicine work better by staying in the eye longer and absorbing faster. The present work looks at different eye problems and talks about ointments used to treat both internal and external eye diseases. It also explains how the eye is built and why it is hard for medicine to get in. There is also an information about ointments that have been discovered with some new ideas and those available in the market to cure eye problems.

Bacterial contamination of multi-use tear drops, gels, and ointments.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the bacterial contamination of multi-use tear drops, gels, and ointments that patients use at home. METHOD: A total of 271 multi-use containers used by 168 patients were examined. Conjunctival culture samples were obtained from patients who used tear drops, gels, and ointments that were found to be contaminated. RESULTS: Bacterial contamination was detected in 33 (12.2 %) out of the 271 containers. The contamination rate was 7.9 % in tear drops, 11.7 % in gels, and 32 % in ointments. A statistically significant difference was found between the drops, gels, and ointment groups (P = 0.04). Bacterial contamination was detected in 25 (18.9 %) out of 132 collapsible tubes and 8 (5.8 %) out of 139 plastic bottles (P = 0.01). Important bacteria, including Pseudomonas stutzeri, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus licheniformis, Paenibacillus pabuli, Proteus mirabilis, Pantoea agglomerans, Morganella morganii, Serratia marcescens, and Serratia liquefaciens, were detected. Mucorales spp. fungus was seen in a gel. Staphylococcus epidermidis, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and M. morganii were found in the conjunctival microbiota of three patients. CONCLUSION: The overall contamination rate of ocular lubricants was low (12.2%); however, a significant difference was found between the drops, gels, and ointments. The contamination rate was higher in gels and ointments than that in drops. The contamination rate was found to be increased in the collapsible tube. The use of ocular lubricants is safe; however, patients must be cautious when using multi-use tear drops, gels, and ointments to avoid contamination. Whenever possible, bottles should be preferred instead of collapsible tubes.

Bacterial contamination of multi-use antibiotic steroid eye ointments and drops.

PURPOSE: This comprehensive prospective study aimed to investigate the bacterial contamination of antibiotic steroid eye ointments and drops frequently used by eye patients. METHOD: In this comprehensive prospective study, a total of 410 multi-use topical eye medications containing 15 different ingredients from 22 pharmaceutical companies used by 185 patients were analyzed. Four groups were formed as follows: group 1: antibiotic ointments (n: 109); group 2: antibiotic drops (n: 103); group 3: steroid ointments (n: 67); and group 4: steroid drops (n: 131). Topical multi-use eye drops and ointments used by patients at home for at least 1 week were randomly collected. The caps and contents were separately bacteriologically examined in a chocolate agar medium. RESULTS: Our study detected bacterial contamination in 23 containers (5.6%) of the total 410 topical drugs. According to the groups, bacterial contamination was detected in 10 of 67 (14.9%) steroid ointments, 6 of 109 (5.5%) antibiotic ointments, 4 of 131(3.1%) steroid drops, and 3 of 103 (2.9%) antibiotic drops. While the bacterial contamination rate in ointments was 9.1%, this rate was 3% in drops. The difference between them was statistically significant (p = 0.015). According to the post-hoc pairwise comparisons, the difference between steroid drops and steroid ointment (p = 0.0023) was statistically significant. Among all drugs, contamination was detected in 12 of the 93 (12.9%) containers used after keratitis, conjunctivitis, and inflammatory conditions. It was determined that preservatives statistically reduced bacterial growth on the cap. The preservatives did not have a statistically significant effect on the bacterial contamination of the contents compared to the caps. While all contaminations were detected in illiterate and primary school graduates, no contamination was seen in the drugs used by any secondary school or university graduate. CONCLUSION: Our study detected contamination in all topical ophthalmic drug groups. Contamination rates were found to be higher in ointments and steroids. Bacterial contamination was also seen in drugs containing preservatives. We should be careful in the use of topical medications. We do not recommend the bilateral use of ointments and drops in infected eyes, such as those with keratitis, or after intraocular surgeries, such as those for cataracts.

Management of post-surgical infection of onychocryptosis with topical application of hyaluronic acid versus antibacterial ointments.

Introduction: The prevention and cure of postoperative infections has been a source of study over the years and is currently being studied. In this bibliographic review, a comparison between the different products used for the prevention and treatment of postsurgical infections has been procured, likewise, being able to determine which would be the best option for the treatment of post-surgical infections. In this bibliographic review we focus on Onychocryptosis because it is an emerging problem today. Many surgeries are performed to fix this condition, which increases the risk of infections. Material: databases, including PubMed and Cochrane Library, as well as websites of international organizations, were searched up to January 2021. The search included studies and trials in humans on the use of hyaluronic acid and antibacterial ointments in various conditions or diseases. Results: 18 articles were analyzed individually, which included randomized studies of Hyaluronic Acid, various antibiotics and honey, and variables used topically. 3 articles were also selected to explain onychocryptosis and postoperative infections. Conclusion: Despite being able to determine which antibiotic would be the best, and whether hyaluronic acid can be used for the prevention and/or cure of post-surgical infections, this review emphasizes that there is still a need for more specific studies on its use of these variables, both in post-surgical infections in general and in post-surgical onychocryptosis infections.

Topical Management of Wound: A Narrative Review of Cadexomer Iodine Ointment Versus Povidone Iodine Ointment.

Several iodine formulations have been used for wound care for ages, but still there exist a number of controversial issues regarding their uses in the present era. Many published studies are available for both povidone iodine (PI) and cadexomer iodine (CI) with conflicting outcomes due to different preparations used and different study types. PI has a broad spectrum of activity including antiseptic properties, anti-inflammatory properties, low cytotoxicity, and good tolerability with the absence of associated resistance. CI is an immobilized iodine molecule in a hydrophilic modified-starch polymer bead with the dual property of cleansing the wound by absorbing the exudate and bactericidal effect by sustained release of iodine molecules over the infected wound. The preparations comprising PI and CI improve wound healing and minimize the bacterial infestation or contamination in various chronic wounds, burns, and ulcers. This review narrates the comparison of CI and PI for the management of wounds in the context of biofilm reduction, wound size reduction, and granulation tissue promotion.

Topical Dosage Formulation of Lyophilized Philadelphus coronarius L. Leaf and Flower: Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Assessment of the Plant.

Philadelphus coronarius is a versatile plant and its use in folk medicine has a long tradition; however, scientifically, the medical utilization of the herb is a less explored research field. The aim of our study was to identify and determine the quantity of the bioactive compounds of both the leaf and the flower and prepare a lyophilized product of them, from which medical ointments were formulated, since the topical application of P. coronarius has also not been studied. In vitro drug release, texture analysis and biocompatibility experiments were carried out, as well as the investigation of microbiological, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. According to our results the composition and the selected excipients of the ointments have a great impact on the drug release, texture and bioavailability of the preparation. During the microbiological testing, the P. coronarius leaf was effective against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, but it did not significantly decrease IL-4 production when it was tested on HaCaT cells. P. coronarius is a promising herb, and its topical application in antimicrobial therapy can be a useful addition to modern medical therapy.

How parents and children evaluate emollients for childhood eczema: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Eczema affects one in five children in the UK. Regular application of emollients is routinely recommended for children with eczema. There are four main emollient types, but no clear evidence of which is best. The current 'trial and error' approach to find suitable emollients can be frustrating for parents, children, and clinicians. AIM: To identify how parents and children experience and evaluate emollients. DESIGN AND SETTING: Qualitative interview study, nested within a primary care trial of emollients (Best Emollients for Eczema [BEE] trial). METHOD: Semi-structured interviews with children with eczema and their parents were conducted. Participants were purposively sampled on emollient type (lotion, cream, gel, or ointment), age, and eczema severity. RESULTS: Forty-four parents were interviewed, with children participating in 24 of those interviews. There was no clear preference for any one emollient type. The strongest theme was the variation of experience in each of the four types. Participants focused on thickness and absorbency, both positively and negatively, to frame their evaluations. Effectiveness and acceptability were both considered when evaluating an emollient but effectiveness was the primary driver for continued use. For some, participating in the trial had changed their knowledge and behaviour of emollients, resulting in use that was more regular and for a longer duration. CONCLUSION: There is no one emollient that is suitable for everyone, and parents/children prioritise different aspects of emollients. Future research could evaluate decision aids and/or tester pots of different types, which could enable clinicians and parents/children to work collaboratively to identify the best emollient for them.

Topical ocular drug delivery systems: Innovations for an unmet need.

The eye is an isolated and complex organ, with multiple robust anatomical and physiological barriers on the ocular surface which protect it from noxious insults such as the blink reflex, tear film and corneoscleral tissue layers. However, these also make it difficult for drugs to reach their therapeutic target within the eye, resulting in very low bioavailability in most commercially available ophthalmic drugs. This review will detail the mechanisms present on the ocular surface which impede drug delivery and give an overview of traditional eye drop formulations, as well as methods of improving their bioavailability through viscosity and permeation enhancement. We also review the evidence for more novel technologies, such as nanoparticles, in-situ gels, blood products, and alternatives to eye drops such as drug loaded contact lenses and ocular inserts.

Nicotinic Amidoxime Derivate BGP-15, Topical Dosage Formulation and Anti-Inflammatory Effect.

BGP-15 is a Hungarian-developed drug candidate with numerous beneficial effects. Its potential anti-inflammatory effect is a common assumption, but it has not been investigated in topical formulations yet. The aim of our study was to formulate 10% BGP-15 creams with different penetration enhancers to ensure good drug delivery, improve bioavailability of the drug and investigate the potential anti-inflammatory effect of BGP-15 creams in vivo. Since the exact mechanism of the effect is still unknown, the antioxidant effect (tested with UVB radiation) and the ability of BGP-15 to decrease macrophage activation were evaluated. Biocompatibility investigations were carried out on HaCaT cells to make sure that the formulations and the selected excipients can be safely used. Dosage form studies were also completed with texture analysis and in vitro release with Franz diffusion chamber apparatus. Our results show that the ointments were able to reduce the extent of local inflammation in mice, but the exact mechanism of the effect remains unknown since BGP-15 did not show any antioxidant effect, nor was it able to decrease LPS-induced macrophage activation. Our results support the hypothesis that BGP-15 has a potential anti-inflammatory effect, even if it is topically applied, but the mechanism of the effect remains unclear and requires further pharmacological studies.

Evaluation of the Wheat Germ Oil Topical Formulations for Wound Healing Activity in Rats.

Wheat Germ Oil (WGO), the flour-milling by-product of wheat has essential constituents for skin health care as vitamin E, B-complex, squalene and unsaturated fatty acids. Incorporate WGO into polymers of the cream and ointment bases and evaluate the wound healing potential of these WGO formulations in the rat-animal model. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> WGO creams and ointments were prepared in two concentrations, 10 and 20% and evaluated for storage stability, homogeneity and compatibility using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectrometry. An amount of 0.5 g of the WGO formulations was applied daily to the injured area of the rats back. Wounds were observed for any clinical changes and healing compared to the control animal group. <b>Results:</b> The WGO was compatible with the cream and ointment bases and physically stables over 60 days of storage. The formulations of WGO have induced dose-dependent wound healing properties however the ointment formulations were demonstrating wound healing activity significantly better than the creams at all the intervals of the treatment. Within three weeks, 20% WGO ointment has induced a 90%reduction in the wound size diameter. Also, wounds recovered by 50% in 10 and 14 days of treatment with 20% WGO ointment and cream, respectively. <b>Conclusion:</b> The results revealed that WGO is a potential wound-healing agent from the scope that WGO is a common cosmetic ingredient and available at affordable prices.

Evaluating the potentials of randomised integrated control trial on tungiasis in a South-western Nigerian community.

Considering the fact that new, safe and incorporable treatment alternatives to therapeutic prophylaxis for tungiasis are lacking and sometimes proving difficult, this present study evaluated the potentials of integrating control approach involving focal premise treatment using 5% emulsifiable concentrate of cypermethrin, and topical application of Piper guineense oil with personal protection. Of the 90 houses selected, their floors were classified into paved rooms & unpaved verandas, paved verandas & unpaved rooms, paved rooms & verandas, and unpaved rooms & verandas, and tested for the presence of sand fleas using the sweeping and beating as well as soil collection and extraction by tullgren funnel method before fumigation. A total of 100 individuals partitioned into four groups of 25 individuals each were assigned 3%, 5%, 10% and 15% of P. guineense oil irrespective of stages of embedded fleas. The mean of sand fleas decreased from 1.14, 0.07, 0.21, and 1.66 to 0.37, 0.02, 0.09 and 1.08 after two weeks of single spray compared to the untreated location (p <  0.001). Furthermore, the mean lesions of stage I reduced to 0 after 2 to 6 days of 3%, 5%, 10% and 15% ointment application, and stage II and III after 10 to 12 days of 10% and 15% application respectively. The difference between tungiasis stages and exposure time for P. guineense ointment was highly significant p = 0.007 and p = 0.0002. Notable reduction in severity score of acute and chronic tungiasis was observed thus indicating effectiveness of the topical ointment. Hexanolic oil extracts of P. guineense in 10% and 15% concentration would kill embedded sand flea and ameliorate the sufferings in endemic settings.

Application of chen yuangao in the treatment of soft tissue injury of football players / Aplicação de chen yuangao no tratamento da lesão dos tecidos moles de jogadores de futebol / Aplicación de chen yuangao para tratar lesiones de tejidos blandos en jugadores de fútbol

ABSTRACT The treatment of soft tissue injury in football players generally includes physical therapy, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug treatment, surgical treatment and early rest immobilization. Western medicine treatment of soft tissue injury can quickly heal the wound and relieve pain in a short time. The treatment of traditional Chinese medicine is based on the whole and must seek the root of the disease. It is believed that the occurrence of certain diseases is related to Qi, blood, liver and kidney deficiency, so we should pay attention to the overall adjustment during treatment of symptoms. In view of this, this study analyzed the effect of Chen Yuan ointment, from traditional Chinese medicine, in the treatment of soft tissue injury. Sixty-eight football players who completed ankle ligament reconstruction were divided into four groups according to the type of operation and whether Chen Yuangao-assisted rehabilitation was used or not. The results showed that the Ankle Hindfoot Function Score and the visual analog scale (VAS) score of patients in the fibula brevis tendon reconstruction Chen Yuan ointment group were 98.3 and 0.3, respectively, at the last follow-up, which were better than those in other groups, and had lower pain scores. This result shows that Chen Yuangao has a certain effect in the treatment of soft tissue injury, which can provide a research idea for the rapid rehabilitation of football players.

RESUMO O tratamento de lesões dos tecidos moles em jogadores de futebol inclui geralmente terapia física, tratamento anti-inflamatório e analgésico, tratamento cirúrgico e imobilização de repouso precoce. O tratamento de lesões nos tecidos moles, utilizando a medicina ocidental, pode curar rapidamente as lesões e aliviar a dor em pouco tempo. A medicina tradicional chinesa se baseia no todo e deve procurar a raiz da doença. Acredita-se que a ocorrência de certas doenças está relacionada à deficiência de Qi, sangue, fígado e rim do corpo humano, por isso devemos prestar atenção ao ajuste global no tratamento dos sintomas. A partir desta perspectiva, este estudo analisou o efeito da tradicional pomada chinesa Chen Yuan no tratamento de lesões dos tecidos moles. No total, 68 jogadores de futebol que fizeram reconstrução dos ligamentos do tornozelo foram divididos em quatro grupos de acordo com o tipo de operação e se a pomada Chen Yuangao ajudou ou não na reabilitação. Os resultados mostraram que o escore da função do tornozelo retropé (Ankle Hindfoot Function Score) e o escore da Escala Analógica Visual (EVA) dos pacientes do grupo pomada Chenyuan para reconstrução do tendão fibular curto foram 98,3 e 0,3, respectivamente, no último seguimento, sendo melhores do que os de outros grupos e apresentando menores níveis de dor. Estes resultados mostra que a pomada Chen Yuangao exerce certo efeito no tratamento de lesões dos tecidos moles, pode constituir uma ideia de pesquisa para a rápida reabilitação dos jogadores de futebol.

RESUMEN El tratamiento de lesiones de los tejidos blandos en jugadores de fútbol incluye generalmente terapia física, tratamiento antinflamatorio y analgésico, tratamiento quirúrgico e inmovilización de reposo precoz. El tratamiento de lesiones en los tejidos blandos, utilizando la medicina occidental, puede curar rápidamente las lesiones y aliviar el dolor en poco tiempo. La medicina tradicional china se basa en el todo y debe procurar la raíz de la enfermedad. Se cree que la ocurrencia de ciertas enfermedades está relacionada a la deficiencia de Qi, sangre, hígado y riñón del cuerpo humano, por eso debemos prestar atención al ajuste global en el tratamiento de los síntomas. A partir de esta perspectiva, este estudio analizó el efecto de la tradicional pomada china Chen Yuan en el tratamiento de lesiones de los tejidos blandos. En total, 68 jugadores de fútbol que hicieron reconstrucción de los ligamentos del tobillo fueron divididos en cuatro grupos de acuerdo con el tipo de operación y si la pomada Chen Yuangao ayudó o no en la rehabilitación. Los resultados mostraron que el escore de la función del retropié del tobillo (Ankle Hindfoot Function Score) y el escore de la Escala Analógica Visual (EVA) de los pacientes del grupo pomada Chenyuan para reconstrucción del tendón fibular corto fueron 98,3 y 0,3, respectivamente, en el último segmento, siendo mejores que los de otros grupos y presentando menores niveles de dolor. Estos resultados muestran que la pomada Chen Yuangao ejerce cierto efecto en el tratamiento de lesiones de los tejidos blandos, puede constituir una idea de investigación para la rápida rehabilitación de los jugadores de fútbol.

Efficacy of topical Calendula officinalis on prevalence of radiation-induced dermatitis: A randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: A randomised controlled trial was undertaken to compare the efficacy of topical Calendula officinalis (Calendula) versus standard of care (Sorbolene: 10% glycerine in cetomacragol cream) in reducing the prevalence of radiation-induced dermatitis in women undergoing breast cancer radiotherapy. METHODS: A total of 271 women were screened and 82 were randomised. The primary outcome was prevalence of acute radiation-induced dermatitis (RTOG grade 2+) assessed at multiple skin sites. A chi-squared test was conducted for the primary outcome with a worst-case scenario imputation. RESULTS: The recruitment target (n = 178) was not achieved. A total of n = 81 participants were analysed (n = 40 Calendula; n = 41 Sorbolene). There was no detectable difference in prevalence of radiation-induced dermatitis grade 2+ between the Calendula (53%) and Sorbolene (62%) groups (primary analysis OR = 0.87, 95% CI: [0.36, 2.09], P = 0.92; covariate adjusted complete case analysis OR 0.40, 95% CI: [0.13, 1.20], P = 0.10). CONCLUSION: This randomised controlled trial showed no difference between Calendula and standard of care (Sorbolene) for the prevention of radiation-induced dermatitis. However, the study was underpowered (limited recruitment) for the primary comparison.

Anticancer activity of topical ointments with histone deacetylase inhibitor, trichostatin A.

BACKGROUND: Trichostatin A (TSA), being a strong specific histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, may lead to the inhibition of growth, differentiation and/or apoptosis of cells in a number of tumors. Semisolid drug formulations for topical release of anticancer agents may be an alternative strategy or a supplement of the systemic therapy. OBJECTIVES: To prepare semisolid formulations with TSA to be used directly on the skin and to assess the anticancer effect in vivo on a mouse model with L1 neoplastic tumors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-four formulations were prepared in the form of semisolid systems containing TSA as the active ingredient. Then, an in vitro study was performed concerning the release of the active substance from the prepared formulations. Four formulations were selected for in vivo studies: oil-in-water cream, hydrogel, w/o emulsion ointment on the absorptive hydrophobic medium, and o/w emulsion gel. The tumor size and mouse body weight were measured during the experiment. The tumors and healthy skin of the mice were assessed regarding the skin barrier function with the Corneometer and Tewameter probes. RESULTS: The semisolid formulation with TSA applied on the skin reduced the growth of neoplastic tumors as compared with the control group. This is especially pronounced in the case of w/o emulsion ointment and o/w emulsion gel. The Corneometer shows that neoplastic tumor growth and formulations on the skin have no effect on the skin condition in comparison with the mouse skin without tumor. The measurement performed with the Tewameter has revealed impaired skin barrier function of neoplastic tumors. CONCLUSIONS: Semisolid formulations with TSA fit well in the mainstream of research into topical medicines applied directly on neoplastic tumors, which may support and supplement current oncological treatment.

Assessing the potentials of two local topical ointments as affordable treatment against tungiasis infestation: A self-experimentation in Igbokoda, Nigeria.

Infestations caused by penetration of Tunga penetrans (Siphonaptera: Hectopsyllidae) in cutaneous sub-layers present morbidities and resulting mortalities if surgical treatment remains the obtainable. Considering the neglected nature of this infestation and the absence of marketable product, we report an observation on the use of grounded naphthalene in kerosene ointment, and powder of Piper guineense in coconut oil ointment as affordable treatment of embedded tungiasis flea in Igbokoda. A total of 80 individuals partitioned into two groups of 40 individuals each were assigned the locally made topical ointment irrespective of stages of tungiasis lesions. The mean of stage I, II and III tungiasis lesions treated with grounded naphthalene in kerosene ointment respectively decreased from 1.83, 3.42 and 3.89 to 0 after 5-6 days (p < .05). Also, the mean of stage I, II and III tungiasis lesions treated with grounded P. guineense ointment respectively decreased from 1.52, 3.10 and 5.00 to 0 after 6 to 7 days of treatment exposure (p < .05). Very high significant difference between stages and exposure days of participants assigned the two topical ointment was recorded p < .0001 and p = .0005 respectively. Naphthalene ointment and to a lesser extent P. guineense ointment is best to control and hinder development cycle of embedded fleas irrespective of infested part and stage of infection.

Bacteriostatic and bactericidal clays: an overview.

This article aims to draw an overview on the actual knowledge on bacteriostatic and bactericidal natural clays. Particular emphasis is given to the role of clay itself, the action of reduced metals located either in the structure of clay minerals or external to them as constituents of associate minerals, and the definition of the mechanisms of action based on the achievements found in all available studies being carried out so far. The term bactericidal is herein used when a clay or a clay mineral kill the bacteria, whereas the term bacteriostatic is used when those minerals stop bacteria growth and replication. The second part of this article deals with experimental studies on bactericidal natural clay, experience and perspective for the preparation of bactericidal natural clays, interesting on the authors perspective and experience for the preparation of pathogens safe both therapeutic and cosmetic natural mud/natural peloid, and better yet of both therapeutic 87oooand cosmetic peloid itself and designed and engineered peloid. The authors also show how to convert non-antimicrobial clay into antimicrobial one, opening the way in the field of pelotherapy to the preparation of sanitary safe peloids addressed, for instance, to the treatment of rheumatic disabilities, as well as to the preparation of antimicrobial peloids and, in particular, of dermatological ointments, all able to fight infectious skin disorders.

Influence of Concentration on Release and Permeation Process of Model Peptide Substance-Corticotropin-From Semisolid Formulations.

The transdermal route of administration of drug substances allows clinicians to obtain a therapeutic effect bypassing the gastrointestinal tract, where the active substance could be inactivated. The hormonal substance used in the study-corticotropin (ACTH)-shows systemic effects. Therefore, the study of the effect of the type of ointment base and drug concentration on the release rate and also permeation rate in in vivo simulated conditions may be a valuable source of information for clinical trials to effectively optimize corticotropin treatment. This goal was achieved by preparation ointment formulation selecting the appropriate ointment base and determining the effect of ACTH concentration on the release and permeation studies of the ACTH. Semi-solid preparations containing ACTH were prepared using Unguator CITO e/s. The release study of ACTH was tested using a modified USP apparatus 2 with Enhancer cells. The permeation study was conducted with vertical Franz cells. Rheograms of hydrogels were made with the use of a universal rotational rheometer. The dependence of the amount of released and permeated hormone on the ointment concentration was found. Based on the test of ACTH release from semi-solid formulations and evaluation of rheological parameters, it was found that glycerol ointment is the most favourable base for ACTH. The ACTH release and permeation process depends on both viscosity and ACTH concentration. The higher the hormone concentration, the higher the amount of released ACTH but it reduces the amount of ACTH penetrating through porcine skin.

Recent patents in anti-wart treatment.

Warts, small skin protuberances caused by human papillomavirus, are not life-threatening, but can be unsightly, embarrassing, uncomfortable and potentially contagious. They may regress naturally but over a prolonged time. Hence wart-afflicted people seek prescribed or over-the-counter therapies. Out of the innumerable marketable anti-wart medications, only a few are effective. Besides, frequent applications over months and certain undesirable side effects limit their success rates. Recurrences are also known. Hence the search for an effective, safe, cheap and quick medicine that is easy to apply continues. A number of patents for anti-wart therapies have been filed in the last few years. In this article, we enlist the recent anti-wart patents and find out those holding promise in the future.

Wound Healing Effect of Acokanthera schimperi Schweinf (Apocynaceae) Methanol Leaf Extract Ointment in Mice and Its in-vitro Antioxidant Activity.

BACKGROUND: Acokanthera schimperi is traditionally used for the treatment of wounds and various bacterial infections. Due to the ongoing escalation of antimicrobial resistance, there is an increasing demand for the appropriate wound care and hence, the present study was initiated to investigate the wound healing effects of the leaf extract ointments of A. schimperi in mice and its in-vitro antioxidant activity. METHODS: The crude extract was prepared as 5% and 10% w/w ointments for topical use in mice. Wound contraction and epithelialization period were determined in excision and infected models, whereas tensile strength was determined in an incision model. Besides, its antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH method. RESULTS: In this study, the 10% w/w extract ointment did not cause toxicity at the 2000 mg/kg limit dose. In the excision model, the 10% w/w ointment exhibited a significant wound contraction effect starting from day 6 to 14 with a complete epithelization shown on day 13. Besides, the 5%w/w ointment showed a significant wound contraction effect starting from day 6 onwards, and a significant decrease in the epithelization period observed on day 16. Conversely, both the 10% w/w and 5% w/w ointments showed significant wound contraction effects starting from day 4 and onwards in the infected model. However, a complete epithelization period was observed on days 14 and 18 in the 10%w/w and 5% w/w/extract ointment treated groups, respectively. In the incision model, the 10% (w/w) and 5% (w/w) extract ointments showed a significant increase in tensile strength by 36.80 and 32.23%, respectively. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of the extract was concentration-dependent with an IC50 value of 5.49± 0.38 µg/µL. CONCLUSION: The potential wound healing effects of this plant may provide a candidate source in the discovery of new drugs for the treatment of wounds.

EVALUATION OF SOME COMMERCIAL ANTIMICROBIAL OINTMENTS ON SELECTED BACTERIAL AND FUNGAL STRAINS OF CLINICAL IMPORTANCE.

BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial ointments are topical products used for the treatment of common skin infections. Potency superiority between certain ointments and creams used in the treatment of skin infections has been a controversial subject among clinicians. OBJECTIVE: This study was carried out to investigate the activities of some antimicrobial ointments on selected bacteria and fungi of clinical importance that caused skin infections. METHODOS: Three brands of antibacterial; gentamicin, chloramphenicol, bactroban and two brands of antifungal ointments; nystatin and Whitefield's were evaluated by agar - cup diffusion method for their antimicrobial activity. Minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration of the ointments were determined. Kinetic study of bactroban on all the clinical isolates was evaluated to determine their efficacy within a specific time lag. RESULTS: All the isolates ofPseudomonas aeruginosa were susceptible to bactroban while 4 of the 5 isolates ofStreptococcus pyogenes were resistant. Three of the five isolates of Staphylococcus aureus were susceptible to bactroban. Gentamicin had no activity on Pseudomonas aeruginosa while 4 of the 5 isolates of Streptococcus pyogenes were susceptible to gentamicin. Three of the 5 isolates of Staphylococcus aureus were susceptible to gentamicin and varied resistance were recorded for chloramphenicol and antifungal agents. The MIC''s values recorded for the antimicrobial ointments examined varied with respect to concentrations and composition. Bactroban and gentamicin gave the MIC's 20mg/mL - 2000mg/mL and 50mg/mL - 400mg/mL while the MIC's range 160mg/ mL - 400mg/mL, 100mg/mL -160mg/mL and 180mg/mL -200mg/mL were also recoded for chloramphenicol, nystatin and Whitefield's against the isolates concerned respectively. The MBC's and MFC's values recorded against the isolates doubled the values obtained from the MIC's. Kinetic studies showed various population reduction to zero at varied contact time for clinical isolates of bacterial and fungi exposed to bactroban. CONCLUSION: These findings elicited potency differences among the ointments tested on the selected clinical microbial isolates examined, this could be useful in the selection of antimicrobial ointments for the management of skin infections caused by the microorganisms tested and their closely related strains.