Formulation and Evaluation of Ferulic acid Loaded Transethosomal Gel
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The current study used the Box–Behnken design (BBD) to develop and optimize a transethosomal gel loaded with ferulic acid for topical administration. Phospholipids, ethanol, and Span 60 were combined to create transethosomes, which were then cold-prepared and evaluated for entrapment efficiency, zeta potential, and vesicle size. With a vesicle size of 181.28 ± 0.41 nm, an entrapment efficiency of 78.98 ± 0.85%, and a zeta potential of –22.91 ± 0.6 mV, the improved formulation (F4) demonstrated good stability.
In vitro drug release studies using a Strat-M® membrane in Franz diffusion cells demonstrated 96.7% cumulative release over 24 hours, following Higuchi kinetics (R² = 0.9905), suggesting diffusion-controlled sustained release. The gel displayed favorable physicochemical properties (pH = 6.5, viscosity = 4990 ± 33.5 cP, spreadability = 11.56 ± 0.4 g·cm/s). Permeation studies confirmed enhanced drug permeation from the transethosomal gel compared to plain gel (84.3% vs. 39.0% over 24 h).
With its enhanced penetration, regulated release, and possible anti-inflammatory properties, transethosomal gel is a viable cutaneous delivery method for ferulic acid.
HIGHLIGHTED POINTS
- Novel Topical Delivery System: Developed and evaluated a Ferulic acid-loaded transethosomal gel for enhanced topical delivery, aiming to harness its anti-inflammatory effects.
- Optimized Formulation: Utilized Box-Behnken design (BBD) to optimize Transethosomes formulation, identifying soya lecithin and Span 60 as key drivers for entrapment efficiency and vesicle size.
- Stable Nano vesicular System: The optimized transethosomal formulation (F4) evidence a favorable particle size (181.28 nm), high entrapment efficiency (78.98%), also moderate stability (zeta potential −22.91 ± 0.6 mV).
- Sustained Drug Release: Ferulic acid was released from the Transethosomes over a 24-hour period in vitro, with release kinetics that matched the Higuchi model and suggested diffusion-controlled release.
5. Enhanced Permeation: The transethosomal gel significantly enhanced drug release and permeation compared to a plain gel, suggesting its potential for improved dermal delivery of Ferulic acid.
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