NIOSOMES AS CARRIERS FOR TOPICAL DELIVERY OF ACECLOFENAC: PREPARATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND IN VIVO EVALUATION

Aceclofenac-loaded niosomal cream were developed to provide sustained and localised drug delivery into the skin, increasing the medication's anti-inflammatory activity and lowering its systemic adverse effects. Different molar ratios of surfactant, cholesterol, and charge inducers were used to create niosomes using the thin-film hydration method. Formulations were characterized for entrapment efficiency, morphology, size, and zeta potential. In-vitro release and stability studies were conducted on selected formulations. Niosomal cream were evaluated for spreadability, pH, rheological behaviour, and in-vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy. The encapsulation efficiency of the formulations was good, reaching 70%. Vesicles had an entrapment efficacy of 84% to 94%, were spherical in form, and ranged in size from 425 to 485 nm. The study suggested that the F5 formulation had the best trapping efficiency and in-vitro release. In-vivo studies revealed that niosomal cream showed a better sustained anti-inflammatory effect than drug plain gel and the marketed product, which was confirmed by the paw edema test. Niosomal cream are promising formulations for sustained local delivery of Aceclofenac. It will provide a new method for future study.