Corticosteroids were found to be most helpful to speed healing and relieve symptoms in the management of aphthous ulcers. For improved patient compliance a long lasting action and a targeted treatment are required. The aim of the present study was to design and evaluate triamcinolone acetonide controlled release mucoadhesive films for the topical treatment of aphthous ulcers. Radiation-induced crosslinked polyvinyl pyrrolidone hydrogel membranes as well as polyvinyl pyrrolidone/hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and polyvinyl pyrrolidone/sodium carboxymethylcellulose hydrogel copolymer blends were prepared. The films were evaluated before and after crosslinking for water uptake, bioadhesion, mechanical properties as well as in vitro drug release. In addition, the rheological characteristics of radiated and non-radiated polymer solutions were investigated. The obtained results revealed that, radiation with the subsequent formation of crosslinked hydrogels was accompanied by an obvious sustainment in drug release, change in the release mechanism from anomalous to Fickian, an apparent increase in swelling behavior of the hydrogel films as well as a great increase in viscosity of the polymeric solutions. In addition, the crosslinking of the polymer chains improved the tensile strength but reduced elasticity and mucoadhesive properties of the films. Furthermore, results showed that the introduction of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and sodium carboxymethylcellulose to polyvinyl pyrrolidone membranes affected greatly the characteristics of both the crosslinked and uncrosslinked films. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone/hydroxypropyl methylcellulose hydrogels demonstrated the highest acceptability by the volunteers, easiest handling and greatest sustainment of drug release. This formula also relieved pain and produced complete healing of aphthous ulcers within 2-5 days.
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