Niosomal <i>versus</i> cubosomal gels of cetirizine hydrochloride: cost-effective permeation enhancement for potential transdermal application

Cetirizine hydrochloride, an antihistamine drug, demonstrated potential off-label use for management of androgenic alopecia (Aga). The aim of the current study was cost-effective preparation of niosomal and cubosomal gels containing Cetirizine hydrochloride for enhanced skin permeation. Niosomes were prepared using a lipid mixture (Span 60 or Tween 80 and cholesterol), with incorporation of an essential oil (Eucalyptus or Peppermint oil) at different weight ratios. Cubosomes were prepared using glyceryl monooleate and Poloxamer 407 at different weight ratios. The prepared nanovesicles were characterized in terms of particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, morphological properties, entrapment efficiency, <i>in-vitro</i> drug release, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The optimal formulations were incorporated into Carbopol gel base (1%) and evaluated in terms of organoleptic properties, viscosity, spreadability, drug permeation, and skin irritation. Niosomes and cubosomes displayed nanosized spherical and cubic morphologies, respectively, with higher entrapment efficiency for cubosomes (98 ± 4.90-99.20 ± 4.46%) compared to niosomes (40.70 ± 1.57-85.90 ± 3.19%). <i>Ex-vivo</i> permeation studies over 24 h demonstrated superior skin permeation for the cubosomal gel (6.2-fold increase) when compared to the niosomal gels (3.1-4.6-fold increase). Cetirizine niosomal (NG10) and cubosomal (CG6) gels demonstrated acceptable skin permeation and safety profiles thus they have great potential in off-label management of Aga.