Influence of Topically Applied Menthol Gel Formulation on Cooling Efficacy and Sustained Release: A FLIR Thermography and Franz Diffusion Study

Background: Cryotherapy literally means that cold therapy; cold can also reduce swelling and inflammation.Cold therapy is an ancient remedy for the pain management, when an injury or inflammation, such as tendonitis or bursitis occurs, tissues are damaged.Cold numbs the affected area, which can reduce pain and tenderness.Topical application of menthol containing products are alternative for the icecold process and more convenient in practical day to day life.In addition to that menthol was widely used as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, relieve neuropathic pain, reduce the itching etc.Methods: Various concentrations of polymers and other additives were systematically analyzed to determine their impact on the physical properties of the cooling gel, including viscosity, thermal stability and cooling sensation through FLIR study. Results:The developed prototype offers an excellent intramuscular penetration and retention with immediate cooling relief upon application.In comparison with conventional benchmark products HIG 41, (which demonstrated ~99.8% release by 8 hours), HIG 33 formulation shows a prolonged release profile with a significantly slower and lower total release.This release behaviour may be desirable in applications where extended, localized drug delivery is preferred over rapid systemic exposure, especially in topical analgesic or anti-inflammatory treatments.HIG 33 helps to release the active in long lasting effect, it might be possible to releases the actives up to 12 hours.At 1hours interval HIG 41 released 37% of active, however in HIG 33 takes 8 hours to release 37% of active molecules. Conclusions:It clearly indicates that the formula composition of HIG 33 helps the sustained releases and provide the addition of 7 hours pain relief protection.The innovative formulation not only maximizes menthols therapeutic effects but also offers user friendly application method, paving the way for future research and development in pain management solutions.