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(CC BY-NC 4.0).
Background: Mucoadhesive patches are an effective method for delivering drugs directly to the oral cavity, offering site-specific, controlled release. Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a widely used polymer in such systems due to its safety, mucoadhesiveness, and ability to form stable films. Tephrosia species, known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, are promising candidates for incorporation into these delivery systems.
Aim: Tephrosia maxima and Tephrosia callophylla extracts were used to create and assess mucoadhesive dental patches based on HPMC, with an emphasis on the physicochemical characteristics, drug release patterns, and possible therapeutic uses in oral applications.
Materials and Methods: Tephrosia extracts were put into an HPMC matrix to create two patch formulations (Patch 1 and Patch 2). The patches were examined using FTIR spectroscopy for chemical compatibility, tensile testing for mechanical strength, contact angle measurements for wettability, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for surface morphology. To evaluate the release profile and mucoadhesive performance, in vitro drug release tests were also carried out.
Results: SEM showed uniform distribution of plant extracts within the patches. A balanced HPMC-to-extract ratio provided optimal tensile strength. Contact angle analysis confirmed good surface hydrophilicity, aiding adhesion. FTIR spectra indicated no major chemical interactions, suggesting good compatibility. Drug release followed a biphasic pattern—an initial burst followed by sustained release—ideal for extended oral therapy.
Conclusion: The study successfully developed and characterized HPMC-based mucoadhesive patches containing Tephrosia extracts. The findings support their potential use as effective, plant-based alternatives for localized treatment of oral conditions, encouraging further in vivo research and clinical evaluation.