A Novel Approach of Leflunomide Nanoemulgel for Topical Drug Delivery System

Objectives: This research’s primary goals are Leflunomide (LFD) nanoemulgel formulation and characterization for topical administration. Materials and Methods: A pseudo ternary phase diagram was created utilizing castor oil, Tween 20 as the surfactant, PEG 300 as a co-surfactant, and ethanol as the cosolvent. Spontaneous emulsification was used to create LFD-nanoemulgel, which is now commercially available. Gel matrix Carbopol 934 was employed to generate nanoemulgel in the prepared nanoemulsion. Studies on the LFD-globule nanoemulgel’s size, physical appearance, viscosity, spreadability, TEM, FTIR drug content, release kinetics, and stability contributed to its characterization and assessment. Optimum nanoemulgel formulation contained 6% castor oil, 36% Tween 80 and PEG 300 as Smix (surfactant and co-surfactant mixture), 46% water, and 12% w/w carbopol 934. Results: The produced nanoemulgel was translucent and had a zeta potential of 26.12 mV and a particle size of 113.55 ± 1.73 nm. The improved formulation has a drug release rate of 98.13% ± 1.20%. They were determined to be ideal for pH, viscosity, and spreadability. According to the stability analysis, the generated nanoemulgel was shown to be stable at temperatures ranging from 25 ± 45°C, according to the stability analysis results. Conclusion: An effective formulation for topical medication delivery using LFD-loaded nanoemulgel has been developed. It may be an alternative drug therapy to the topical application of drugs to treat arthritis.