FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF MELOXICAM-LOADED TRANSFERSOME GEL AS TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY CARRIERS

Transfersomes (TFS) are the promising carriers for transdermal delivery of various low and high molecular weight drugs, owing to their self-regulating and self-optimizing nature. Herein, we report synthesis and characterization of TFS loaded with meloxicam (MLX), a Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) for transdermal delivery. The different formulations of TFS containing varying amounts of lecithin, Span 80, and Tween 80 were successfully prepared by thin-film hydration method. FTIR pre-formulation investigations conformed that there was no contact among the medication and excipients, according to the FTIR spectra. Thin film hydration was used to create the transfersome formulations, which were then added to the 1.5% Carbopol gel. The Formulation F6 has a greater entrapment efficiency and maximum drug release since it contains Lecithin: Span-80 in a ratio of 89.84 (%w/w). A greater correlation with Higuchi's equation was discovered to fit the kinetic analysis of the transfersome gel formulation than with the zero order and first order. This claims that diffusion process was primarily responsible for the drug's release from the lipid bilayer. According to stability studies for improved transfersome gel formulations, manufactured transfersomes are stable at room temperature. Finally, it can be inferred from the findings of the current study that transfersome gel enhances the transdermal distribution of the medication Meloxicam, prolongs the release, and improves site specificity. With the use of transfersomes, a number of medications that are difficult to administer through other methods can now be delivered safely and effectively transdermally.

Keywords: Transfersomes, NSAID, Meloxicam, lecithin, Span 80, Tween 80, Carbopol, gel.