Nanocarrier based transdermal formulation of NSAID: Optimization of drug loading and analysis of permeation characteristics

Arthritis is a major cause of disability and morbidity, particularly in older individuals. The symptoms and signs of arthritis and related conditions include pain, stiffness, swelling, muscle weakness, and limitation of movement of the joints. The objective of the present work was to provide a dosage form for localized action of drugs used in treatment of arthritis to the affected tissues for prolonged period and to avoid side effects in non-target organs. To achieve this, drug loaded liposomes and transferosomes were prepared for Nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs and further incorporated in transdermal gel formulation. The formulations were prepared by Experimental design using screened factors and their levels and by optimized process parameters. The transdermal drug permeation was found to be highest for transferosomal gel, whereas drug was found to be slightly retained in skin during permeation from liposomal gel formulation. The reason may be fusion of Phospholipids during diffusion through skin. Both the Transferosomal gel formulation and Liposomal gel formulation showed sustained release of drug for more than 6 hrs. Based on the pharmacokinetic studies, both the liposomal gel and transferosomal gel were found to have better bioavailability as compared to plain gel of Aceclofenac. Both the transferosomal and liposomal gel showed better anti-inflammatory action and analgesic action than marketed gel of Aceclofenac (Marketed gel).