Microneedle-Mediated Delivery of Amikacin-Liposomes: A Minimally Invasive Strategy against Bacterial Septicemia
摘要
Sepsis is a severe systemic infection with a high mortality rate worldwide. Majorly, sepsis is treated by administering antibiotics including amikacin. Nevertheless, the present course of therapy necessitates frequent bolus doses of amikacin, leading to patient non-adherence, prolonged hospital stays, and regular therapeutic monitoring. Administration of amikacin by the intravenous or intramuscular routes requires precise dosage calculations, and appropriate disposal of sharp wastes. Amikacin’s shorter half-life makes it more challenging to administer intravenously and achieve adequate systemic concentrations. An innovative formulation and delivery approach to combat infection, particularly in a low-resource healthcare setting can be lifesaving to many, by reducing errors due to inappropriate needle disposal and expanding access to outpatient antibiotic treatment.
MethodsIn response to the challenge, novel delivery systems were fabricated, including microneedle (MN) patches containing amikacin (Ak-MN) and amikacin-loaded liposomes (Ak-lip-MN). These systems were designed to offer sustained and extended delivery, to improve the treatment of infections. The Ak-MN and Ak-lip-MN were prepared using the PDMS micro-molding technique and evaluated for their piercing strength, in vivo skin insertion, pharmacokinetics, and stability.
ResultsThe higher TEWL value of 375.6 g/m2/h and the histological studies showed good MN skin insertion. The developed MN patches demonstrated a prolonged release profile lasting as long as 96 h, with maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) of 450 ng/mL for Ak-MN and 250 ng/mL for Ak-lip-MN. This can lower continual dosage administration and enhance the antibacterial efficacy at reduced doses, making way for effective treatment approaches for the management of sepsis.
ConclusionThe study overcomes the drawbacks of traditional intravenous injections, by developing dissolving microneedles with improved therapeutic efficacy.
Graphical Abstract