Vaginal Drug Delivery Flashcards
Vaginal drug delivery is useful for delivering what kind of effects?
Topical + systemic
How many layers are found?
4
When does the pH environment tend to rise?
As you age
How thick is the vaginal wall?
20 to 45 cell layers (200 to 300 micrometers)
What local bacterial flora is typically found? What does it convert to?
Lactobacilli to glycogen to lactic acid and peroxide
How does menstrual blood affect pH?
pH rises then possible bacterial growth
What are ways the vaginal pH can be altered?
- Presence of semen
- Personal hygiene
- Menstrual blood
Local action, what must be considered?
Smaller dose because you want to reduce absorption/distribution and reduce toxicity
What is a microbicide and what is the issue with them?
Used to prevent HIV and/or STDs. They are under-developed
What wrong with the systemic delivery?
Not a lot of products available; mostly just creams/hydrogels
How are lipophilic substances absorbed?
Transcellularly
How are hydrophilic substances absorbed?
Paracellularly
What are pessaries?
Vaginal suppositories
What is the typical shape and weight of pessaries?
Usually ovoid and 5g or less
What kind of base is most convenient?
Water soluble
