Development of nano structured lipid carrier based hydrogel for the treatment of psoriasis

The present work aimed to develop Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Based Hydrogel for the treatment of psoriasis, delivered as a topical application on to the skin. Nanostructured Lipid carrier based Hydrogel loaded with methotrexate is a new technique for topical administration for psoriasis. Methotrexate loaded NLC's were prepared by a hot homogenization method using high-pressure homogenizer. Stearic acid and oleic acid were selected as the solid lipid and liquid lipid, respectively. Tween 80 used as a surfactant. The developed lipid formulations were incorporated in 1% Carbopol 934 gel medium to maintain the topical application consistency. Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy was employed to identify their functional groups. Differential Scanning Calorimetry was employed to determine its melting point. The particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index for the MTX-NLC were found to be 239.12±3.65nm, -24.61mV and 0.245 to 0.517. Scanning electronic microscopy studies will reveal the surface morphology of the nanoparticles. The pH of the drug-loaded formulation was in the range of 4.93 to 5.83. Spreadability was in the range of 3.01±0.59cm to 8.13±0.34cm. Viscosity at 25±2oC was 67325 cps.  In vitro studies suggest that initial release rate was observed within first 4 hrs and amount of drug release was 35 to 47± 3.61%, fast and sustained release rate reached by 24th hr and release rate of the drug was 72%.  The stability studies reported that the formulation was stable for 30 days after the incorporation of the drug, and there was no drug degradation or decomposition and no change in physical appearance. Hence, results indicate the sustain release activity of MTX-NLC Hydrogels, which could help in preventing the cell division and proliferation of cell acting as a major barrier in the topical application of psoriasis.