Development of In Situ Nasal Gel of Moxifloxacin HCl for Brain Targeting: Design, Optimization and In-vitro Evaluation

Bacterial meningitis is a life-threatening infection of the meninges, often caused by Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae type b. Symptoms include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, nausea, vomiting, and altered mental status. Diagnosis is confirmed via cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and treatment requires broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics and corticosteroids. This study aimed to develop a thermoreversible in-situ nasal gel for Moxifloxacin HCl to enhance brain targeting and CNS absorption, reducing enzymatic breakdown and side effects. Using polymers like Xanthan gum, HPMC K4M, and Carbopol-940, the optimized gel demonstrated quick gelling, strong bioadhesion, and high ex-vivo absorption. Stability tests confirmed long-term efficacy. Further in-vivo research is needed to validate these results for meningitis treatment.