Development of an in silico model of topical acyclovir to explore formulation design

Authors: Spires J, van Osdol W, Lukacova V
Conference: GRC
Keywords: in silico, topical acyclovir, Transdermal Compartmental Absorption & Transit (TCAT™)
Software: GastroPlus®
Division: PBPK

Purpose

Acyclovir (ACY) creams are used for local treatment of HSV-1 infections in the basal epidermis. Local delivery to the skin through the stratum corneum (SC) must be effective to reach target concentrations deeper in the skin. Zovirax® cream has a high percentage of undissolved acyclovir and low dermal delivery, suggesting that ACY content may be reduced without affecting delivery to the skin. The Transdermal Compartmental Absorption and Transit™ (TCAT) model in GastroPlus® is a physiologically based mathematical model that simulates the dermal and systemic pharmacokinetics of topically applied compounds. A validated TCAT model of ACY can be used to investigate formulation properties of Zovirax cream and optimize design.

By Jessica Spires, William van Osdol, Viera Lukacova

Gordon Research Conference on Skin Barrier Function, Waterville Valley Resort, NH August 6th-11th, 2023