Preparation and in vitro evaluation of ophthalmic in situ gel formulations containing moxifloxacin and cyclodextrin inclusion complexes

Moxifloxacin HCl is a new fourth generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic with high potential for both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial pathogens. In situ gelling formulations containing moxifloxacin cyclodextrin complexes were prepared for ophthalmic application and characteristic properties of the formulations were investigated by in vitro analyses. Complexes were prepared with SBEβCD, HPβCD and MβCD and in situ gelling formulations with Pluronic F127 and HPMC. MβCD complexes were used in in situ gelling formulations according to their enhanced solubility, gelling properties, stability and antimicrobial activity properties, The gelling properties, rheological behaviors, in vitro release, properties, antimicrobial efficacy and stability of in situ gelling formulations; F181-MβCD, F1815-MβCD and F1915-MβCD which were prepared with moxifloxacin MβCD complexes were investigated. As a result, due to the extended release profiles, in vitro efficacy, stability, and extended ocular residence time due to gelation, moxifloxacin MβCD complexes incorporated in situ gel formulations were regarded as alternative formulations to the classical eye drops. Keywords: Moxifloxacin HCl, In situ gel, Inclusion complex.