Development of Deferoxamine-Loaded Topical Formulations, Polymeric Film and Hydrogel, from Opuntia ficus-indica Mucilage

Background and objectives: Human skin’s vulnerability to damage necessitates effective wound care, especially for diabetic foot ulcers, which are difficult to treat. Modern dressings protect and deliver therapeutic agents to promote healing. Deferoxamine mesylate aids angiogenesis and speeds up diabetic foot ulcer healing, while Opuntia ficus-indica mucilage forms a protective, moisturizing, and antimicrobial layer. This study therefore aimed to develop and characterize two topical formulations—film and hydrogel—combining O. ficus-indica mucilage with deferoxamine to enhance protection and healing of diabetic foot ulcers. Methods: Mucilage was extracted using ethanol; polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was added to improve mechanical strength. Films and hydrogels were prepared using glutaraldehyde and borax as crosslinkers. Deferoxamine was incorporated into the formulations, and drug release was analyzed. Results: The hydrogel showed a swelling capacity of 3000%, 33% disintegration, and 82% moisture, ideal for absorbing wound exudates. The film had a 700% swelling capacity, 12% disintegration, and 26% moisture. Tensile testing showed 60% elongation and 2.34 MPa tensile strength, indicating flexibility. Drug release from the film followed Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetics, releasing 40% in 5 hours and 70% over 48 hours, enabling sustained delivery. Conclusion: The film’s release profile and strength suit topical use for diabetic foot ulcers, while the hydrogel’s high swelling favors exudate absorption, making both promising for advanced wound care.