Development Of Biopolymeric Suppositories For The Treatment Of Bacterial Vaginosis

Abstract

The current work deals with the development of the biopolymer based suppositories for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is characterized with a reduction in the Lactobacillus count in the vaginal lumen with the subsequent reduction in pH and growth of the pathogenic microorganisms. The mode of treatment of BV by alternative therapies includes either restoration of Lactobacillus colonies or restoration of the acidic environment in the vaginal lumen. In this study, attempts were made to develop gelatin-based biopolymeric suppositories. Further attempts were made to entrap Lactobacillus acidophilus within the suppositories, which may help in the release of lactic acid for a prolonged period to restore the acidic pH of the vaginal lumen. Microscopic examination of the section showed a homogeneous distribution of the viable bacteria within the polymeric matrix indicating its probable use in the treatment of BV. Thereafter, various bioactive agents were also incorporated either in combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus or as separate entities. The combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus and metronidazole, Lactobacillus acidophilus and lactic acid showed the most promising results.

Keywords: Bacterial vaginosis, gelatin, suppositories, metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, lactobacilli.