Development, Optimization and Evaluation of Microemulsion Based Gel to Manage Scalp Psoriasis

Abstract

Psoriasis is a widespread chronic disease affecting 1-3% of total population. In major cases (>80%), it is treated by topical application of corticosteroids. However, the topical route is very challenging due to physico-chemical nature of diseased stratum corneum and so no single treatment works for every patient. The oral route showed severe side effects due to systemic immunosuppression, which can be avoided by topical route. The aim of the research work was to investigate ichthyol pale loaded microemulsion based gel for effective permeation and retention in the skin tissue for psoriasis treatment. The aim and objective of preparation of microemulsion based gel is to increase permeation. Microemulsion is also widely used as permeation enhancer. Gel gives ease of use of formulation on skin and give patient friendly formulation. Gel also gives advantage like ease of application. There are advantages of preparing microemulgel because it increases penetration also give stability and reduce irritation and give ease of application. Currently only cream of ichthyol pale is available in market. The main objective of the work is to formulate dosage form that have good penetration and better efficacy for treatment of scalp psoriasis. Argan oil/Olive oil used as oil phase, Simulsol 1293(PEG 40 hydrogenated castor oil) used as surfactant and Polyethylene glycol 400 used as co-surfactant. Spontaneous emulsification method used for preparation of micro emulsion. Xanthan gum was used as gelling agent. The formulation was evaluated for viscosity, pH, particle size, zeta potential, and In vitro release. 2% microemulsion based gel of ichthyol pale was found better in all parameters.