Background: The aim of this study was to enhance the solubility of Natamycin, an anti-
fungal agent used in fungal keratitis, through solid dispersion incorporated ophthalmic
films with the purpose to avoid frequent dosing, enhance the period of retention, and
sustaining release for better patient compliance. Materials and Methods: Firstly, solid
dispersions were prepared by the solvent evaporation method and then, the best solid
dispersion formulation was incorporated into films which were prepared by the solvent
casting method using retarding polymers Ethyl cellulose, PVA and Chitosan. PEG-400
was used as a plasticizer. The films were evaluated for their thickness, surface pH, drug
content, weight uniformity, folding endurance, tensile strength, antimicrobial activity,
in-vitro and
ex-vivo permeation studies, and
in-vitro antifungal studies. Results and
Discussion: The films exhibited good mechanical properties with promising results and
were in an acceptable range. The optimized formulation NF6 shows more drug release in
in-vitro studies as compared to
ex-vivo. This is due to the varying pore size of the cornea
and disturbance of other tissues. An ocular irritation test revealed that the prepared
formulation was non-irritant. Conclusion: Thus, the formulated ophthalmic film seems to
be a promising formulation for the safe and effective delivery of Natamycin through the
ocular route in the treatment of fungal keratitis.