COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT MARKETED BRANDS OF DICLOFENAC GEL: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Because topical drug delivery methods can produce localized therapeutic benefits with less systemic adverse effects, they have become more important. Diclofenac gel is frequently used to treat pain and inflammation brought on by musculoskeletal conditions such soft tissue injuries and osteoarthritis. Diclofenac gel comes in a variety of marketed brands, thus a comparative analysis is necessary to guarantee medicinal equivalency, safety, and quality. Based on physicochemical factors, rheological features, drug content, in-vitro diffusion tests, and skin penetration characteristics, this study attempts to assess several commercially available brands of diclofenac gel. According to a number of studies, variations in excipient composition and formulation methods may affect viscosity, spreadability, and drug release behavior even though the majority of formulations adhere to pharmacopeial and regulatory criteria. The results emphasize the significance of post-marketing surveillance, quality control testing, and regulatory compliance to guarantee uniformity across various brands. The use of generic formulations as affordable and medically comparable substitutes for branded goods is also supported by the review.