Enhanced anti-cataract effect of microemulsion containing Cineraria maritima: Formulation, optimization and in vivo evaluation

Abstract

Cineraria maritima (CM) has a long history in Homeopathy for its immensely prescribed use in the treatment of cataracts throughout the globe. However, the commercially available solution dosage form of CM is primarily limited by its low efficiency. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop an effective dosage form of CM to enhance its anti-cataract effect. CM-loaded microemulsion formulation was developed and optimized using ethyl oleate as oil, tween 80, and span 20 as Smix by using the water titration method. For the physicochemical characterization of extract-loaded microemulsion formulations, the identification of a marker compound was done by the HPLC technique. In- vitro characterization and ex-vivo evaluations of prepared formulations were carried out to determine the best formulation. The selected formulation (MEF1) was subjected to in-vivo anti-cataract and ocular irritation studies in the rabbit model and compared with a marketed aqueous formulation as control. The in vivo data demonstrated greater efficacy of microemulsion over-marketed formulation. The study results showed the promising anti-cataract effect of prepared microemulsion indicating its prospective to be used in the treatment of cataracts.