Formulation and Evaluation of Tacrolimus Transdermal Gel

Formulation and evaluation of Transdermal gels of Tacrolimus, ant psoriasis drug, to circumvent the first pass effect and to improve its bioavailability with reduction in dosing frequency and dose related side effects. Twelve formulations were developed with varying concentrations of polymers like Carbopol 934P, HPMCK4M and Sodium CMC. The gels were tested for clarity, Homogeneity, spread ability, Extrudability, Viscosity, surface pH, drug Content uniformity, in-vitro drug diffusion study and exvivo permeation study using rat abdominal skin. FTIR studies showed no evidence on interactions between drug, polymers and excipients. The best in-vitro drug release profile was achieved.