FORMULATION INSIGHTS: INFLUENCE OF EXCIPIENTS AND PERMEATION ENHANCERS ON THE TRANSDERMAL DELIVERY OF ACECLOFENAC GEL

Abstract

Topical gels have emerged as effective alternatives to oral non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), offering localized drug delivery with reduced systemic side effects. Aceclofenac, a widely prescribed NSAID, demonstrates limited skin permeability, necessitating the incorporation of suitable excipients and permeation enhancers to optimize transdermal delivery. This study evaluates the effect of different excipients and permeation enhancers on the physicochemical properties, spreadability, and permeation efficiency of aceclofenac gel formulations. Various polymers, solvents, and surfactants were examined for their role in improving drug release and dermal penetration. Permeation enhancers such as propylene glycol, ethanol, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) were found to significantly influence drug flux across the skin barrier by altering lipid bilayer fluidity and solubility. Comparative analysis revealed that optimized combinations of excipients and enhancers not only enhanced drug permeation but also improved patient-friendly attributes such as nongreasiness and ease of application. These findings underline the critical role of formulation strategies in designing effective topical gels for targeted anti-inflammatory therapy