Comparative Evaluation of Transethosomal and Transniosomal Emulgels for Enhanced Transdermal Delivery of Naproxen: A Novel Approach for Managing Musculoskeletal Inflammation

Naproxen, a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is effective in managing musculoskeletal inflammation but is often associated with gastrointestinal side effects and hepatic first-pass metabolism when administered orally. To address these limitations, this study focused on developing and comparing two advanced vesicular drug delivery systems “Transethosomes and Transniosomes” incorporated into emulgels for transdermal delivery of Naproxen. These vesicular systems enhance skin permeation and offer fast release, making them promising candidates for topical NSAID delivery.
A 2-factor, 3-level experimental design was employed to optimize formulation parameters. Naproxen-loaded Transethosomes and Transniosomes were prepared using the thin-film hydration method and subsequently incorporated into hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)-based emulgels. The resulting emulgels were evaluated for pH, viscosity, spreadability, FTIR interactions, and in vitro drug release behavior. Optimized formulations, designated TE7 and TN1, exhibited high entrapment efficiency, appropriate vesicle sizes, and desirable physical characteristics. FTIR analysis confirmed compatibility between Naproxen and formulation excipients.
In vitro drug release studies demonstrated efficient Naproxen release, with the Transethosomal formulation (TE7) showing a slightly faster release profile compared to the Transniosomal formulation (TN1). These findings suggest that both emulgel systems offer promising potential as effective transdermal alternatives to conventional oral NSAID therapy for musculoskeletal conditions, potentially improving patient compliance and minimizing systemic side effects.