An Study to Determine the Physicochemical, Mechanical, and Antibacterial Properties of a Novel Spirulina Containing Controlled Release Intrapocket Drug Delivery System.

CONTEXT

Periodontitis is primarily an inflammatory condition caused by an array of microorganisms present in dental plaque. Elimination or adequate suppression of periodontal pathogens in the subgingival microflora is essential for adequate periodontal healing to take place. The development of subgingivally placed controlled delivery systems has provided the possibility of effective intrapocket concentration levels of antibacterial agents for an extended period of time, resulting in an altered subgingival flora and enhanced healing of the attachment apparatus. Although a number of synthetic antimicrobial agents are being used as local drug delivery, currently, pharmaceutical technology development has focused on the ingredients derived from nature. Natural phytochemicals have proven to be worthy substitutes of their synthetic and chemical-laden counterparts owing to their extensive natural activity, advanced safety margins, and inferior costs so that they can be of huge benefits, especially to the lower socioeconomic population around the world and spirulina platensis (SP) is one such emerging remedy.

AIMS

The aim of the study was to develop three controlled release drug delivery systems containing different concentrations of SP to be used inside the periodontal pockets. The study also aimed to determine the antimicrobial activity of all the three concentrations of SP drug delivery system against major periodontopathic microorganisms and to test the physicochemical properties of the delivery system that exhibited maximum antimicrobial efficacy so that the suitability of its use inside the periodontal pocket could be determined.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

The study was an experimental design.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Three different controlled release SP hydrogels (4%, 6%, and 12%) to be used inside the periodontal pockets were developed and antibacterial properties against periodontal pathogens were assessed. The hydrogel exhibiting maximum antimicrobial efficacy was then tested of physicochemical and mechanical properties to determine its suitability of its use inside the periodontal pocket.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance. Tukey honestly significant difference test was used for comparison within the group and between the different groups.

RESULTS

12% SP hydrogel was found to have maximum antimicrobial efficacy against major periodontal pathogens, and its physicochemical and mechanical properties were also optimum to be used inside the periodontal pocket.

CONCLUSIONS

12% SP hydrogel can act as a promising adjunct to periodontal mechanical therapy and may also reduce the chances of more invasive periodontal surgical procedures.