Development and Optimization of Febuxostat Emulgel for the Treatment of Gout

Background

Gout is a chronic disease caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints, resulting in sudden pain, stiffness, and swelling. Febuxostat (FBX), a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, is commonly used to treat gout but has poor solubility, which affects its bioavailability.

Materials and Methods

To address this issue, a skin-permeating emulgel was developed using Cinnamon (CN) oil as an oil solvent, cremophor RH 40 (Cr. RH 40) as a co-surfactant/solubilizer, and Poloxamer 407 as an emulsifier. A solubility study was performed followed by optimization by 32 factorial designs. The formulation was further evaluated for viscosity, globule size, drug release, and stability studies.

Results

Solubility of FBX was found 1 in 10 parts in selected oil. The optimized emulgel containing 10% Cremophor RH 40 and 20% Poloxamer 407 shown improved drug release compared to the pure drug. All other parameters were found satisfactory.

Conclusion

The formulated emulgel designed to penetrate the skin shown a good potential for topical formulations enhancing the effectiveness of drug. Moreover, creating a skin-permeating emulsion-based gel in a cost-effective and industrially viable manner could enhance drug penetration and absorption through the skin thereby faster cure of gout compared to the conventional product.