#71 Pullulan based electrospun nanofibers of Voriconazole: Promising preliminary studies for oral candidiasis

Abstract

Fungal infections have shown great concern with the emergence of a high threat to medically compromised patients with low immune systems, especially Candida albicans, with an increased incidence of resistance. For this reason, there is a need for developing innovative dosage forms. Hence, the main objective of this present investigation was to develop nanofibers of voriconazole using various polymers like pullulan and polyvinyl alcohol. The nanofibers fabricated by the electrospinning technique were characterized and optimized to confirm the ratios of the polymeric concentration, which ultimately affected the mechanical strength and diameter of the nanofibers. The optimized nanofibers were uniform, beadles, and 235±69 nm with an entrapment efficiency of 66.66±3.01%. The tensile strength of nanofibers was in the range of 14 g/cm² to 18 g/cm². Voriconazole-loaded nanofibers indicated a modified drug release and followed a zero-order release. The anti-fungal activity of drug-loaded nanofibers exhibits superior anti-fungal activity against Candida albicans than plain drugs. Based on these results, they indicate that nanofibers can treat oral candidiasis and can be applied as an innovative dosage form. This innovative nanofiber system can improve patient compliance and give an effective and safe therapy.