Development and optimization of sulfasalazine loaded microemulsion for improved topical treatment of psoriasis

The resulting microemulsions showed globule sizes between 60 ± 0.42 to 349 ± 0.13 nm, with optimal viscosity. In vitro release studies confirmed sustained drug release over 24 hours, following first-order kinetics. Skin permeation studies demonstrated enhanced drug penetration with SSZ-ME, while histopathological analysis revealed significant improvements in psoriatic symptoms in mice treated with 4% SSZ-ME compared to 2% SSZ-ME and marketed formulation. Blood analysis confirmed minimal systemic absorption and localized action. These results suggest that SSZ-ME offers a promising, patient-compliant, and effective topical therapy for psoriasis with improved therapeutic outcomes and minimal systemic exposure.