Development of novel sustained release bioadhesive vaginal tablets of povidone iodine

Iodine has long been used as an antiseptic for the prevention and treatment of vaginal infections. The present study was aimed at the development of rapidly disintegrating, bioadhesive and sustained release vaginal tablets of an iodophore, polyvinylpyrrolidone (povidone iodine), their evaluation and comparison with the marketed formulations. The formulation development included drug-excipient compatibility studies, optimization of performance parameters like disintegration time, bioadhesion and drug release profile and comparison of physical properties and performance parameters with the marketed formulation. The developed formulation provided a sustained release of polymer complexed iodine (up to 8 hrs), rapid disintegration (< 1 min.), desired bioadhesive properties and retention for a prolonged time.