Film-forming Systems Research Articles

An Overview of Film-Forming Emulsions for Dermal and Transdermal Drug Delivery.

Drug delivery through the skin is a widely used therapeutic method for the treatment of local dermatologic conditions. Dermal and transdermal methods of drug delivery offer numerous advantages, but some of the most important aspects of drug absorption through the skin need to be considered. Film-forming systems (FFS) represent a new mode of sustained drug delivery that can be used to replace traditional topical formulations such as creams, ointments, pastes, or patches. They are available in various forms, including solutions, gels, and emulsions, and can be categorised as film-forming gels and film-forming emulsions. Film-forming emulsions (FFE) are designed as oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions that form a film with oil droplets encapsulated in a dry polymer matrix, thus maintaining their dispersed nature. They offer several advantages, including improved solubility, bioavailability and chemical stability of lipophilic drugs. In addition, they could improve the penetration and diffusion of drugs through the skin and enhance their absorption at the target site due to the nature of the components used in the formulation. The aim of this review is to provide an up-to-date compilation of the technologies used in film-forming emulsions to support their development and availability on the market as well as the development of new pharmaceutical forms.

In Vitro and Randomized Controlled Clinical Study of Natural Constituents' Anti-HPV Potential for Treatment of Plantar Warts Supported with In Silico Studies and Network Analysis.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the anti-HPV potential of a Moringa olifera Lam seed, Nigella sativa L. seed, and Musa Acuminata peel herbal mixture in the form of polymer film-forming systems. A clinical trial conducted in outpatient clinics showed that the most significant outcome was wart size and quantity. Compared to the placebo group, the intervention group's size and number of warts were considerably better according to the results. Chemical profiling assisted by LC-HRMS led to the dereplication of 49 metabolites. Furthermore, network pharmacology was established for the mixture of three plants; each plant was studied separately to find out the annotated target genes, and then, we combined all annotated genes of all plants and filtered the genes to specify the genes related to human papilloma virus. In a backward step, the 24 configured genes related to HPV were used to specify only 30 compounds involved in HPV infection based on target genes. CA2 and EGFR were the top identified genes with 16 and 12 edges followed by PTGS2, CA9, and MMP9 genes with 11 edges each. A molecular docking study for the top active identified compounds of each species was conducted in the top target HPV genes, CA2 and EGFR, to investigate the mode of interaction between these compounds and the targets' active sites.

Spray: Film Forming System Promising as Transdermal Drug Delivery System

Transdermal drug delivery systems offer numerous advantages over conventional routes, including improved patient compliance and reduced systemic side effects. Spray-on film forming systems (SFFS) have emerged as a novel and versatile approach for delivering drugs through the skin. This abstract presents an overview of SFFS technology, highlighting its potential in transdermal drug delivery. SFFS formulations consist of a solution or suspension of drug molecules and polymers, which upon spraying onto the skin, form a thin, uniform film that adheres to the application site. This film acts as a reservoir for drug release, providing controlled and sustained delivery over time. The versatility of SFFS allows for the incorporation of various drugs, including small molecules, peptides, and proteins, catering to a wide range of therapeutic needs. Moreover, SFFS offers advantages such as ease of application, improved bioavailability, and enhanced skin permeation compared to traditional dosage forms. This abstract summarizes recent advancements in SFFS technology, including formulation strategies, characterization methods, and in vitro/in vivo evaluations. Additionally, challenges such as skin irritation, film integrity, and scalability are discussed, along with potential solutions. Overall, SFFS holds great promise as a transdermal drug delivery system, offering opportunities for enhanced therapeutic outcomes and patient convenience.

A Review on Novel Film Forming Systems for Topical and Transdermal Drug Delivery

A Review on Novel Film Forming Systems for Topical and Transdermal Drug Delivery

The Influence of Lyophobicity and Lyophilicity of Film-Forming Systems on the Properties of Tin Oxide Films

In this work, the effects of lyophobicity and lyophilicity of film-forming systems on the properties of thin nanostructured films was studied. Systematic series of experiments were carried out with lyophilic film-forming systems: SnCl4/EtOH, SnCl4/EtOH/NH4F, SnCl4/EtOH/NH4OH and lyophobic systems: SnO2/EtOH and SnO2/EtOH/NH4F. Film growth mechanisms are determined depending on the type of film-forming system. The surface of the films was studied using a scanning electron microscope and an optical microscope. The spectrophotometric method is used to study the transmission spectra and the extinction coefficient. The surface resistance of the films was determined using the four-probe method. The quality factor and specific conductivity of the films are calculated. It was found that the addition of a fluorinating agent (NH4F) to a film-forming system containing SnO2 in the form of a dispersed phase does not lead to an increase in the specific conductivity of the films. X-ray diffraction analysis proved the incorporation of fluorine ions into the structure of the film obtained from the SnCl4/EtOH/NH4F system by the presence of SnOF2 peaks. In films obtained from SnO2/EtOH/NH4F systems, there are no SnOF2 peaks. In this case, ammonium fluoride crystallizes as a separate phase and decomposes into volatile compounds.

CHARACTERIZATION AND SCREENING PARAMETERS OF SPRAY FILM-FORMING SYSTEMS: A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON DOSAGE FORMS AND QUALITY INDICATORS

Objective: The objective of this study is to present the main screening parameters for the development of Spray Film-Forming Systems (SFFSs) using the design space. The focus is on characterizing the different phase states of SFFSs during application and establishing appropriate methods for determining the range of parameters. Methods: In this study, various methods were used to determine the range of SFFS parameters. These include contact angle determination, pH test, viscosity measurement, drying rate estimation, spray pattern determination, tensile strength test, and washability. The methods used were evaluated and found to be effective in assessing the quality parameters of liquid concentrates, aerosols, and films of commercially available SFFS samples. Results: Three states (liquid, aerosol, and solid) of commercially available SPSFs were evaluated using the techniques mentioned above. The applicability of the techniques and variability was discussed in comparison with similar studies. The results showed that the mean pH ranged from 5.43±0.02 to 6.63±0.05, the bioadhesion of liquid concentrates was in a narrow range of 4.49±0.52, the highest index of dynamic viscosity was 0.33±0.04, values of the spray pattern ranged from 6.19±1.97 to 17.46±2.72 cm2, bioadhesion values of the films ranged from 3.87 to 4.06 N, average values of film formation time were in the range of 65.55±12.65) s. 3 of the 4 samples had resistance to skin cracking, the tensile load of the commercial SFFS films varied from 2.91±0.3 to 5.11±0.65 N, and the tensile strength from 1.07±0.11 to 1.20±0.3 mPa. All films were not washed off with water. Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate the successful application of tested methods in determining the range of parameters for SFFSs. The established values for indicators of liquid concentrates can serve as a basis for the further development of SFFSs. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding and standardization of Spray Film-Forming Systems for wounds, enabling their effective development and application in local skin treatments.

Nanocellulose-Based Film-Forming Hydrogels for Improved Outcomes in Atopic Skin.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by impaired skin barrier function. Amongst the various dermal formulations that are being used and/or investigated for AD treatment, one of the advanced approaches is the use of hydrogels as film-forming systems that are applied directly to the skin and have the added value of providing a physical barrier, which is lacking in atopic skin. Novel film-forming hydrogels based on two different nanocrystalline celluloses (NCCs) in combination with one of two natural polymers (alginate or pectin) were developed for incorporation of betamethasone dipropionate (BDP). Initially, the low water solubility of BDP was resolved by prior dissolution in a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS). The mixture of Kolliphor® EL/Capryol® 90 in a ratio of 8/2 was chosen on the merit of its high BDP-saturated solubility and no BDP precipitation upon water dilution, enabling BDP to remain dissolved after incorporation into hydrogels. The solvent evaporation method was used to prepare the films, and their high water retention capacity was confirmed in vitro on artificial membranes and pig ear skin. The presented results thus confirm NCC-based film-forming hydrogels as a very promising drug delivery system for AD treatment.

Film Forming Systems for Delivery of Active Molecules into and across the Skin

We have investigated delivery systems that can form a structured matrix film on the skin after their application. In a previous work, we have shown that Weblike film forming systems (also called Pouches Drug Delivery Systems, PDDS) enable enhanced skin delivery of the incorporated molecules. These delivery systems are composed of one or more phospholipids, a short-chain alcohol, a polymer and optionally water. In this work, we continue the investigation and characterization of Weblike carriers focusing on some factors affecting the delivery properties such as components concentration and mode of application on the skin. Upon non-occluded application on the skin, the systems dry rapidly, forming a web-like structured film. Lidocaine, Ibuprofen, FITC and Cannabidiol are molecules with various physico-chemical properties that were incorporated in the carrier. The systems were tested in a number of in vitro and in vivo experiments. Results of the in vitro permeation of Ibuprofen through porcine skin indicated two-fold delivery through the skin of Ibuprofen when applied from our Weblike system in comparison with a nanovesicular carrier, the ethosome. We also have investigated weblike systems containing hemp seed oil (HSO). This addition enhanced the film's ability to deliver lipophilic molecules to the deeper skin layers, leading to an improved pharmacodynamic effect. In analgesic tests carried out in a pain mice model following one hour application of CBD in Weblike system with and without HSO, the number of writhing episodes was decreased from 29 in the untreated animals to 9.5 and 18.5 writhes, respectively. The results of our work open the way towards a further investigation of Weblike film forming systems containing drugs for improved dermal and transdermal treatment of various ailments.

ПЕРСПЕКТИВЫ ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЯ ПЛЕНКООБРАЗУЮЩИХ АЭРОСПЕРСНЫХ СИСТЕМ ПРИ ЗАКРЕПЛЕНИИ СТОМЫ

Abstract. The potential of spray film-forming systems for prevention and therapy of peristomal complications is highly significant. The advantages of the dosage form include creation of protective skin barrier, prolonged release of active substances of anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, regenerative spectrum of action, etc. Polymeric compositions can delay and partially prevent the aggressive media impact released by stomas via osmotic action and neutralize the allergic potential of adhesives for attachment of stoma and pouching system. A flexible and thin film can be created via controlled spraying that follows the skin texture, interrupting the irritation "vicious circle". The pH of the composition will reduce the pH of the irritated skin and related microbial contamination. Creation of such form will significantly improve stoma patients’ life quality, prevent some peristomal complications and facilitate skin care surrounding stoma, especially in difficult postoperative periods. The aim was to establish the potential of spray film-forming systems and the prospects of drug development in such a new dosage form to prevent peristomal complications as maceration, allergic dermatitis, and infection complications of mechanical injuries of bacterial and fungal nature, to determine the main properties required from the resulting film, as well as relevant active substances spectrum. In addition, two types of medications were suggested to help patients with self-diagnosis of stoma discharge on the surrounding skin and partially prevent irritation until the problem is detected.

Coupling AFM, DSC and FT-IR towards Elucidation of Film-Forming Systems Transformation to Dermal Films: A Betamethasone Dipropionate Case Study.

Polymeric film-forming systems have emerged as an esthetically acceptable option for targeted, less frequent and controlled dermal drug delivery. However, their dynamic nature (rapid evaporation of solvents leading to the formation of thin films) presents a true characterization challenge. In this study, we tested a tiered characterization approach, leading to more efficient definition of the quality target product profiles of film-forming systems. After assessing a number of physico-chemico-mechanical properties, thermal, spectroscopic and microscopic techniques were introduced. Final confirmation of betamethasone dipropionate-loaded FFS biopharmaceutical properties was sought via an in vitro skin permeation study. A number of applied characterization methods showed complementarity. The sample based on a combination of hydrophobic Eudragit® RS PO and hydroxypropyl cellulose showed higher viscosity (47.17 ± 3.06 mPa·s) and film thickness, resulting in sustained skin permeation (permeation rate of 0.348 ± 0.157 ng/cm2 h), and even the pH of the sample with Eudragit® NE 30D, along with higher surface roughness and thermal analysis, implied its immediate delivery through the epidermal membrane. Therefore, this study revealed the utility of several methods able to refine the number of needed tests within the final product profile.

Simultaneous Physico-Mechanical and In Vivo Assessment towards Factual Skin Performance Profile of Topical Polymeric Film-Forming Systems.

Topical film-forming systems (FFS) change drastically after solvent displacement, therefore indicating their skin metamorphosis/transformation as a property of special regulatory and research interest. This paper deals with the lack of suitable characterization techniques, suggesting a set of methods able to provide a comprehensive notion of FFS skin performance. After screening the physico-chemical, mechanical and sensory properties of FFS and resulting films, an elaborate three-phase in vivo study was performed, covering skin irritation, friction and substantivity. Upon removal of 24-hour occlusion, no significant change in erythema index was observed, while the film-former type (cellulose ether, acrylate and/or vinyl polymer) affected transepidermal water loss (TEWL); hydrophobic methacrylate copolymer-based samples decreased TEWL by 40–50%, suggesting a semi-occlusive effect. Although both the tribological parameters related to the friction coefficient and the friction curve’s plateau provided valuable data, their analysis indicated the importance of the moment the plateau is reached as the onset of the secondary formulation, while the tertiary state is still best described by the completion of the film’s drying time. The final part of the in vivo study proved the high in-use substantivity of all samples but confirmed the optimal 4:1 ratio of hydrophobic cationic and hydrophilic polymers, as indicated during early physico-mechanical screening.

Role of Microneedling on Transdermal Permeation of Tranexamic Acid Embedded in Film-Forming Systems

Role of Microneedling on Transdermal Permeation of Tranexamic Acid Embedded in Film-Forming Systems

Confocal Raman Spectroscopic Imaging for Evaluation of Distribution of Nano-Formulated Hydrophobic Active Cosmetic Ingredients in Hydrophilic Films.

Film-forming systems are highly relevant to the topical administration of active ingredients (AI) to the body. Enhanced contact with the skin can increase the efficacy of delivery and penetration during prolonged exposure. However, after the evaporation of volatile solvents to form a thin film, the distribution of the ingredient should remain homogenous in order to ensure the effectiveness of the formula. This is especially critical for the use of hydrophobic molecules that have poor solubility in hydrophilic films. In order to address this concern, hydroxyphenethyl esters (PHE) of Punica granatum seed oil were prepared as a nanosuspension stabilised by poloxamers (NanoPHE). NanoPHE was then added to a formulation containing polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as a film forming agent, Glycerol as a plasticiser and an antimicrobial agent, SepicideTM HB. Despite their reliability, reference methods such as high-performance liquid chromatography are increasingly challenged due to the need for consumables and solvents, which is contrary to current concerns about green industry in the cosmetics field. Moreover, such methods fail to provide spatially resolved chemical information. In order to investigate the distribution of ingredients in the dried film, Confocal Raman imaging (CRI) coupled to Non-negatively Constrained Least Squares (NCLS) analysis was used. The reconstructed heat maps from a range of films containing systematically varying PHE concentrations highlighted the changes in spectral contribution from each of the ingredients. First, using NCLS scores it was demonstrated that the distributions of PVA, Glycerol, SepicideTM HB and PHE were homogenous, with respective relative standard deviations (RSD) of 3.33%, 2.48%, 2.72% and 6.27%. Second, the respective relationships between ingredient concentrations in the films and their Raman responses, and the spectral abundance were established. Finally, a model for absolute quantification for PHE was be constructed using the percentage of spectral abundance. The prepared %w/w concentrations regressed against predicted %w/w concentrations, displaying high correlation (R2 = 0.995), while the Root Mean Squared Error (0.0869% w/w PHE) confirmed the precision of the analysis. The mean percent relative error of 3.75% indicates the accuracy to which the concentration in dried films could be determined, further supporting the suitability of CRI for analysis of composite solid film matrix. Ultimately, it was demonstrated that nanoformulation of hydrophobic PHE provides homogenous distribution in PVA based film-forming systems independent of the concentration of NanoPHE used in the formula.

Development of Mucoadhesive Film-Forming Systems Containing Black Ginger Extract for Aphthous Ulcers

Film-forming systems (FFSs) were developed by using Eudragit® E100 as a film former. Kaempferia parviflora (black ginger) extract was used as an anti-inflammatory agent for aphthous ulcers. The FFS could rapidly form a thin film in only 5 s when it was applied to a wet surface e.g. an aphthous ulcer. When the FFS was applied to a dry surface, the FFS without extract could form a film in 2-4 min. The incorporation of this extract contributed to delaying the film-formation time in the dry state; hence, the film-forming time increased to 6-8 min. The mucoadhesive property of FFSs was verified with the wash-off method. To simulate oromucosal conditions, the FFSs were applied on a cellophane membrane coated with mucin and washed by phosphate buffer of pH 6.8. The formulations without mucoadhesive polymers could not withstand flushing with a medium for more than 8 min without dislodging. Therefore, three different mucoadhesive agents were trialed: PVP K90, HPMC E15 LV, and HPC SL. The highest adhesion results were obtained when HPMC was added at 5%(w/w) as well as, the residence time was 22 min. In vitro release of black ginger extract from FFS showed a gradual release for 2 h. This study indicated that the FFS with HPMC E15 LV was an appropriate alternative formulation as a local delivery system for an aphthous ulcer.

Barrier properties of “epoxy resin - amine hardener” film-forming systems

The article examines the physicomechanical and barrier properties of non-pigmented epoxy coatings formed from various film-forming systems based on epoxy resins and amine hardeners. The barrier properties of the coatings were evaluated by the nature of the frequency dependencies of the capacitance and resistance of the painted metal plates in contact with a 3 % aqueous solution of sodium chloride, and also by the magnitude of the displacement of the open circuit potential of the painted electrode compared to unpainted. It was experimentally established that a higher content of gel fraction is observed for coatings formed from low-viscosity film-forming compositions. It is shown that the physicomechanical and protective properties of epoxy coatings depend on the content of the functional groups in the epoxy resin and the nature of the amine hardener. It was found that to obtain coatings with better properties, it is preferable to use amine hardeners characterized by a low content of amine groups and a reduced proportion of secondary amino groups. A relationship was found between the protective properties of coatings and their water absorption. It is proposed to use the characteristics of water absorption of coatings as a simple method for assessing their barrier properties. The technological aspects of the use of the studied film-forming systems in the production of anticorrosive paints are considered. The advantages of using low viscosity epoxy film-forming systems without inert solvents are shown.

EFFECT OF POLYMERIC BLEND ON EX-VIVO PERMEATION STUDIES OF ACECLOFENAC LOADED FILM FORMING GEL

Objective: To date, film-forming systems have been intensively investigated for transdermal drug delivery. Film-forming systems offers various advantages compared over conventional transdermal drug delivery systems. The objective of the present study was to study the effect of polymeric blend on ex-vivo permeation studies of topical film-forming gel of aceclofenac.
 Methods: Film-forming gels were prepared by using Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and Eudragit polymeric blend in varied concentrations, polyethylene glycol 400 as plasticizer, ethanol as solvent and tween 80 as a penetration enhancer. The prepared film-forming gels were evaluated and the influence of the concentration and ratio of polymeric blends used plasticizer and ethanol were investigated.
 Results: All the prepared film-forming gels showed satisfactory properties regarding homogeneity, compatibility, viscosity and pH value. Variation in the concentration of polymers showed a variable effect on drug permeation rate from film-forming gels. Almost, all formulations permeated up to 80% of drug in 12 h and formulation F1 showed a maximum release about 97.54 % in 12 h.
 Conclusion: Film-forming gels of aceclofenac with sustained-release profile were successfully developed and may provide a promising effective formulation which may improve patient compliance.

Enhancing chitosan solubility in alcohol: water mixtures for film-forming systems releasing with turmeric extracts

BackgroundFilm-forming system (FFS), a non-solid dosage form, are attractive drug delivery system for the topical drug administration due to ability to form a film in situ on a skin after spraying or applying. To minimize drying time, alcohol is often used as a solvent in the system. The aim of this research was to enhance chitosan solubility in alcoholic solution by chemical modification of chitosan, i.e., reductive amination and Michael addition reaction, for film-forming systems with efficient releasing of turmeric extract. MethodsAlcoholic-soluble chitosan derivative (CBA) was synthesized by reductive amination, followed by a Michael reaction. Its structure was investigated by FT-IR, 1H NMR and XRD techniques. The CBA was incorporated with β-cyclodextrin encapsulated turmeric extract (CDTE) to prepare film-forming solution. Significant FindingsThe results confirmed that the CBA was successful prepared, as the new peaks were observed by FT-IR and 1H NMR, with good solubility in 50% aqueous alcoholic solution. The CBA-based film, derived from the solvent evaporation, exhibited nontoxic to HaCaT cells. Moreover, the films containing CDTE had smooth surfaces and released turmeric extract (74%) more effectively than films containing the extract alone (43%). The CBA-based ethanolic solution (30–50%v/v ethanol) could dry within ~6–9 min and form a thin film on human skin. ConclusionsThus, the CBA-based solution with CDTE has potential as a film-forming system based on natural products.

PLGA based film forming systems for superficial fungal infections treatment

As proven in clinical trials, superficial fungal infections can be effectively treated by single topical application of terbinafine hydrochloride (Ter-HCl) in a film forming system (FFS). Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) derivatives, originally synthesized with intention to get carriers with optimized properties for drug delivery, and multifunctional plasticizers - ethyl pyruvate, methyl salicylate, or triacetin - were used for formulation of Ter-HCl loaded FFSs. After spraying, a biodegradable, transparent, adhesive, and occlusive thin layer is formed on the skin, representing drug depot. In situ formed films were characterized by thermal, structural, viscoelastic, and antifungal properties as well as drug release and skin penetration. DSC and SEM showed fully amorphous films with Ter-HCl dissolved in PLGA in high concentration (up to 15%). FFSs are viscoelastic fluids with viscosity which can be easily adjusted by the type of plasticizer used and its concentration. The formulations showed excellent bioadhesion properties, thus ensuring persistence on the skin. In situ film based on branched PLGA/A plasticized with 10% of ethyl pyruvate allowed prolonged release of Ter-HCl by linear kinetics for the first 6 days with a total time of almost 14 days. During ex vivo human skin penetration experiment, Ter-HCl was found to be located only in its target layer, the epidermis. According to our results, plasticized branched PLGA derivatives loaded by Ter-HCl are suitable for the development of FFSs for superficial fungal infections treatment.

Influence of Anionic Surfactants on the Fundamental Properties of Polymer/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite Films.

Surfactants are frequently employed in the fabrication of polymer/graphene-based nanocomposites via emulsion techniques. However, the impact of surfactants on the electrical and mechanical properties of such nanocomposite films remains to be explored. We have systematically studied the impact of two anionic surfactants [sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS)] on intrinsic properties of the nanocomposite films comprising reduced graphene oxide in a matrix of poly(styrene-stat-n-butyl acrylate). Using these ambient temperature film-forming systems, we fabricated films with different concentrations of the surfactants (1-7 wt %, relative to the organic phase). Significant differences in film properties were observed both as a function of amount and type of surfactant. Thermally reduced films exhibited concentration-dependent increases in surface roughness, electrical conductivity, and mechanical properties with increasing SDS content. When compared with SDBS, SDS films exhibited an order of magnitude higher electrical conductivity values at every concentration (highest value of ∼4.4 S m-1 for 7 wt % SDS) and superior mechanical properties at higher surfactant concentrations. The present results illustrate how the simple inclusion of a benzene ring in the SDS structure (as in SDBS) can cause a significant change in the electrical and mechanical properties of the nanocomposite. Overall, the present results demonstrate how nanocomposite properties can be judiciously manipulated by altering the concentration and/or type of surfactant.

Film-Forming Systems for the Delivery of DNDI-0690 to Treat Cutaneous Leishmaniasis.

In cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), parasites reside in the dermis, creating an opportunity for local drug administration potentially reducing adverse effects and improving treatment adherence compared to current therapies. Polymeric film-forming systems (FFSs) are directly applied to the skin and form a thin film as the solvent evaporates. In contrast to conventional topical dosage forms, FFSs strongly adhere to the skin, favouring sustained drug delivery to the affected site, reducing the need for frequent applications, and enhancing patient compliance. This study reports the first investigation of the use of film-forming systems for the delivery of DNDI-0690, a nitroimidazole compound with potent activity against CL-causing Leishmania species. A total of seven polymers with or without plasticiser were evaluated for drying time, stickiness, film-flexibility, and cosmetic attributes; three FFSs yielded a positive evaluation for all test parameters. The impact of each of these FFSs on the permeation of the model skin permeant hydrocortisone (hydrocortisone, 1% (w/v) across the Strat-M membrane was evaluated, and the formulations resulting in the highest and lowest permeation flux (Klucel LF with triethyl citrate and Eudragit RS with dibutyl sebacate, respectively) were selected as the FFS vehicle for DNDI-0690. The release and skin distribution of the drug upon application to Leishmania-infected and uninfected BALB/c mouse skin were examined using Franz diffusion cells followed by an evaluation of the efficacy of both DNDI-0690 FFSs (1% (w/v)) in an experimental CL model. Whereas the Eudragit film resulted in a higher permeation of DNDI-0690, the Klucel film was able to deposit four times more drug into the skin, where the parasite resides. Of the FFSs formulations, only the Eudragit system resulted in a reduced parasite load, but not reduced lesion size, when compared to the vehicle only control. Whereas drug delivery into the skin was successfully modulated using different FFS systems, the FFS systems selected were not effective for the topical application of DNDI-0690. The convenience and aesthetic of FFS systems alongside their ability to modulate drug delivery to and into the skin merit further investigation using other promising antileishmanial drugs.