The use of dextran in gynecological powders containing lactic acid complexed with chitosan

Powders for gynecological use pass under natural conditions in gels covering the vaginal mucosa. This study has shown the impact of used excipients and the ratio of lactic acid to chitosan on pH, dynamic viscosity and adhesiveness of methylcellulose gels obtained from powders. All gels with complexes in the ratios of 1:1 and 2:1 (lactic acid:chitosan) showed a pH in the physiological range 3.5-5.0 at 37°C. The addition of dextran and excipients to these complexes allows various formulations over a wide range of pH to be obtained. Rheological investigations revealed an increase in the dynamic viscosity of preparations containing lactic acid complexed with chitosan and dextran in comparison to gels without dextran. Studies of the work of adhesion showed the effect of glycerol, 1,2-propylene glycol and their concentrations on the value of the work of adhesion. The presented work shows that it is possible to obtain gels with high adhesion properties to vaginal mucous membrane.