Bacterial nanocellulose as a drug delivery system for local anesthetics: A novel approach for non-invasive pain management.

This study presents the development of bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) membranes derived from "Nata de fique" for local anesthesia applications. The membranes were successfully produced using fique juice as a culture medium and exhibited a characteristic nanofibrillar structure. After a purification process with KOH, they displayed a neutral pH and a high moisture content of 98.12 ± 0.54%. Following mechanical dehydration, their thickness and weight were reduced, but upon loading with articaine hydrochloride and epinephrine, the membranes recovered 87.35 ± 0.32% of their moisture. Electron microscopy confirmed that the structural integrity of the nanofibrillar network remained intact after dehydration and drug loading, allowing for controlled drug release. FTIR analysis validated the successful incorporation of anesthetics without compromising membrane integrity. Adsorption kinetics followed a pseudo-second-order model, with equilibrium reached in 50 minutes, and the membranes absorbed 4.13 ± 0.3 mg of articaine per gram of wet BNC. Desorption studies in simulated physiological fluid revealed a controlled release of up to 88% of the drug within 60 minutes. In vitro studies demonstrated limited cell adhesion, suggesting potential applications as temporary wound dressings that minimize granulation tissue formation. A 48-hour patch test on volunteers confirmed the membranes as "Non-irritating" and dermatologically safe. These findings highlight the potential of BNC derived from "Nata de fique" membranes as a non-invasive alternative for local anesthetic delivery, offering sustained drug release, biocompatibility, and safe skin application.