Development, Optimization and Evaluation of Quercetin Loaded Microemulsion Based Gel For Management of Atopic Dermatitis

Abstract

Around 10-20% of children and 1-3% of adults worldwide suffer from atopic dermatitis, a persistent and inflamed skin disorder. Topical corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors are the primary treatment for atopic dermatitis in the vast majority of cases. However, these steroids have some negative effects. As a result, quercetin is a natural bioflavonoid with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant qualities that help to lessen atopic dermatitis flare-ups and improve the state of the skin. Development of a microemulsion based gel containing bioflavonoids with good efficacy and increased penetration through the deeper layer of skin (dermis) is the goal of the research. Small particle size of microemulsion may easily enter the skin, which is one of their benefits for effective topical distribution. Due to the microemulsion’s low viscosity, absorption is slower. In order to maximize the absorption of hydrophobic drugs, emollient effect and patient-friendly formulation, gelling agent is directly added to the microemulsion. The preparation of microemulsion based gel has benefits because it reduces irritability, has improved stability, has a hydrating effect and it is simple to apply. There is not topical quercetin product on the market right now. Therefore, the uniqueness of research for atopic dermatitis treatment is pretty straightforward. Spontaneous emulsification method use for development of microemulsion. Use of Labrafac PG, Labrasol and Transcutol P as an oil, surfactant and co-surfactant respectively. The optimised microemulsion has PI value of 0.209 is transparent and clear and has globule that are 115.7 nm in size. Using carbopol ultrez 20 as a gelling agent, an optimised microemulsion was added to the gel formulation without altering its characteristic. This increased the viscosity of the microemulsion and enhanced the formulation’s ability to be applied topically. Viscosity, pH, drug content, texture analysis, spreadability and in-vitro drug release were all assessed for the formulation. The quercetin based gel with 1.75% microemulsion yield positive results across the board.