DEVELOPMENT AND IN VITRO CHARACTERIZATION OF A TOPICAL FEBUXOSTAT GEL FORMULATION FOR ENHANCED TRANSDERMAL DELIVERY

ABSTRACT Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems (TDDS) represent an advanced therapeutic modality, offering controlled and sustained drug release while mitigating the risks associated with systemic fluctuations and adverse effects. This investigation centers on the formulation and comprehensive evaluation of a febuxostat-incorporated topical gel, engineered to optimize transdermal delivery. A nanoemulsion technique was employed to encapsulate febuxostat in varying concentrations, followed by integration into a gel matrix. A series of rigorous physicochemical assessments, including stability profiling, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, zeta potential analysis, spreadability testing, and in vitro drug release studies, were performed to evaluate the characteristics and performance of the formulated system. The findings indicated that the formulations retained physical stability and pH levels within the physiologically acceptable range, while demonstrating efficient and controlled drug release. The results substantiate the potential of the optimized febuxostat-loaded nanoemulsion gel as a promising transdermal delivery vehicle, offering a sustained release profile that enhances therapeutic efficacy and patient compliance. Keywords: Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems (TDDS), febuxostat, nanoemulsion, topical gel, sustained release, controlled drug delivery etc.