POLYMERIC FILMS FROM HPMC AND α-GOS INCORPORATED WITH CANNABIDIOL FOR TOPICAL USE

The development of topical systems for the controlled release of cannabidiol (CBD) is a pharmacotechnical challenge due to its lipophilicity and low aqueous solubility. This study aimed to develop and characterize polymeric films of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) and α-gluco-oligosaccharide (α-GOS) containing CBD, prepared by the solvent casting method in different HPMC:α-GOS ratios (100:0, 80:20, 60:40, and 40:60), with and without 1% CBD. The analyses included macroscopic evaluation, thickness, average weight, mechanical properties, water vapor transmission, degradation index, solubility, as well as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that α-GOS significantly increased hydrophilicity, enhancing solubility and degradation, while CBD increased thickness without compromising thermal stability. Films with higher HPMC content exhibited greater mechanical strength, and FTIR confirmed the absence of relevant chemical interactions. Thermal analyses indicated stability up to approximately 195 and 239 °C, and SEM images revealed homogeneous surfaces in HPMC-rich films, rougher surfaces with α-GOS, and emulsified particles upon CBD addition. It is concluded that the method employed was suitable and that intermediate formulations (60:40 and 80:20) presented the most promising properties for topical application.