Abstract

DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A SOLVENT-FREE ETORICOXIB TOPICAL EMULGEL FORMULATION

V. N. V. L. Sowjanya*, Dr. S. Shobha Rani and Dr. K. Anie Vijetha

ABSTRACT

This study aims to develop and evaluate an etoricoxib Emulgelformulation for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.Etoricoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, offers effective pain andinflammation relief but presents challenges in its topical delivery andremoval of residual solvents. To address this, an Emulgel formulationwas prepared without using any solvents, employing varyingconcentrations of excipients while maintaining a constant drugconcentration. The optimized formulation underwent comprehensiveevaluation through various tests. The physical appearance of theEmulgel was assessed to ensure homogeneity and consistency. pHmeasurements confirmed compatibility with skin pH, enhancing itssuitability for topical application. The extrudability test evaluated theease of gel extrusion from the container, ensuring user-friendly application. Viscositymeasurements were conducted to determine the formulation's spread ability and stability.Drug content analysis ensured uniform distribution of etoricoxib within the Emulgel,guaranteeing dosage accuracy. Determine whether the formulation was safe to use topically, askin irritation test was carried out, confirming its non-irritant nature. The in-vitro diffusionstudies were performed using the Franz diffusion cell provided insights into the drug releaseprofile, demonstrating sustained and controlled release of etoricoxib through the skin. Theoutcomes show that the etoricoxib Emulgel formulation that has been improved is a goodoption for topical treatment, offering effective anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity withfavourable physicochemical properties, safety, and drug release characteristics. This studysupports the potential of etoricoxib Emulgel as an alternative topical delivery system formanaging pain and inflammation.

Keywords: ? Etoricoxib ? Emulgel ? Anti-inflammatory ? Analgesic ? Topical delivery ? Formulation.