Evaluation of Blatta orientalis (Q) nasal gel formulation in milk aspiration induced eosinophilia.

BACKGROUND

The purpose of the present study was to develop intranasal delivery systems of the homeopathic anti-asthmatic remedy Blatta orientalis mother tincture (Q) using thermoreversible polymer Pluronic F127 (PF127) and mucoadhesive polymer Carbopol 934P (C934P).

METHODS

Formulations were modulated so as to have a gelation temperature below 34 degrees C to ensure gelation at physiological temperature after intranasal administration. Its gelation temperature, mucoadhesive strength, viscosity and gel strength were studied. B. orientalis (Q) nasal gel was tested with recurrent milk aspiration to determine whether it produces changes in eosinophilia in a murine model of asthma.

RESULT: The gelation temperatures of the formulations and mucoadhesive strength, determined using sheep nasal mucosal membrane, increased by the addition of increasing concentrations of Carbopol. The results of milk aspiration induced eosinophilia, B. orientalis (Q) nasal gel significantly (P < 0.001), decreased eosinophil cell count as compared with toxicant by using in absolute eosinophilia count method. Finally, histopathological examination did not detect any damage during in vivo studies.

CONCLUSION

The PF127 gel formulation of B. orientalis (Q) with in situ gelling and mucoadhesive properties with increased permeation rate is promising for prolonging nasal residence time and thereby nasal absorption.