Preparation and in vitro evaluation a matrices forms of metronidazole using propolis and beeswax as matrix forming agents.

Background: Metronidazole is nitroimidazole antibiotic that is used for the treatment of numerous infectious diseases caused by different organisms, such as protozoans, Helicobacter pylori, primarily Gram-negative and Gram-positive anaerobic bacteria, and protozoa. The objective of this study was to assess the possibility of using propolis and beeswax in preparation of a matrix form of metronidazole by different techniques. Materials and Methods: Matrices were prepared by melt technique using beeswax and propolis as a release retardant agents. The compatibility between metronidazole and matrices forming agents (propolis and beeswax) was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. Results: The FTIR and DSC analysis showed the stability and compatibility of the drug with other components. Bead matrices were prepared by emulsion congealing techniques by changing the amount of beeswax as a release retardant agent at five ratios mostly1:1, 1:3, 1:5, 1:8, and 1:10 drug to wax ratio. Tween 80 (2% w/v) was used as a surfactant. It was found that by increasing beeswax content, the particle size of spherical particles was increased. The drug release shows initial fast release followed by constant release. Conclusion: According to dissolution studies, it can be concluded that the use of beeswax and propolis as matrices forming agents of metronidazole is a very promising manner to sustain the release of drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]