Abstract:

Analgesics such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have gastrointestinal side effects and, particularly for local pain, topical dosage forms of these drugs are mainly preferred. The aim of this study was to develop meloxicam loaded niosomal hydrogel for enhanced transdermal and controlled drug delivery. Niosomal formulations were prepared by thin film hydration method using different types of nonionic surfactant in the presence of cholesterol. Niosomal vesicles were characterized in terms of droplet size, zeta potential, surface morphology and entrapment efficiency. For enhanced residence time, niosomes were further loaded into the carbopol gel. The niosomal formulation containing Span 60, Tween 80 and cholesterol at a molar ratio of 6:1:0.6 had an optimally high percentage of drug entrapment with a mean vesicular diameter of 236.80 nm. Within 24 hours, a maximum of 46.83% drug release was achieved showing faster releasing profile than commercial meloxicam gel. Dermal and transdermal delivery of meloxicam using niosomal-gel formulations may offer promising alternative to traditional delivery systems of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with improved local and systemic but decreased adverse effects.

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