Biopharmaceutical Evaluation of a Photoprotective Preparation Based on Melanin Isolated from Seed Episperm of Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum L.)

The article focused on a study of the release of melanin from its gel dosage form and the toxicological properties of the gel. The recorded release of melanin from the gel was fastest during the first 3 h (50.8%). The remaining amount of melanin was subsequently released gradually as the system equilibrium shifted. The photoprotective action of the drug was prolonged because of the slowed melanin release. Symptoms of acute toxicosis and lethal outcomes were not recorded in all experimental animals during studies of the acute toxicity parameters of the developed gel based on melanin isolated from horse chestnut seed episperm with subcutaneous administration and cutaneous application at doses of 1500, 2000, 2500, and 3000 mg/kg. The developed photoprotective gel belonged to class Vof practically harmless substances. The LD₅₀ value for cutaneous application to rats was >2500 mg/kg.