DEVELOPMENT OF A COMBINATION TABLET TO TACKLE THE DRUG RESISTANCE OF ORAL CANDIDIASIS

Candida infections, particularly those caused by Candida albicans, pose significant health risks, especially due to increasing antifungal resistance. Fluconazole, a commonly used antifungal, is losing efficacy against resistant strains, necessitating new treatment strategies. This study aims to develop and evaluate tablets combining ibuprofen and fluconazole to address fluconazole-resistant candidiasis. Fluconazole and ibuprofen were formulated into tablets using wet granulation. Various excipients and superdisintegrants were tested to optimize tablet properties. The final formulation was assessed for flowability, compressibility, and quality control specifications. Antifungal susceptibility was tested in vitro against fluconazole-sensitive and fluconazole-resistant C. albicans strains. The optimal tablet formulation contained 150 mg fluconazole, 50 mg ibuprofen, Avicel PH-101, PVP K30, sodium croscarmellose, and magnesium stearate. Quality control tests showed compliance with pharmacopoeia standards, including hardness, friability, and disintegration time. Antifungal testing revealed that the combination tablets-maintained activity against fluconazole-sensitive strains and exhibited significant antifungal effects against fluconazole-resistant strains, demonstrating a synergistic interaction. This study successfully developed a combination tablet of fluconazole and ibuprofen that is effective against fluconazole-resistant C. albicans. The findings support the potential of this combination therapy for treating resistant candidiasis, warranting further clinical investigation.