Fabrication of niosomes containing N-acetyl glucosamine: In-vitro and ex-vivo characterizations

Abstract

This study was designed to formulate N-acetylglucosamine (a skin lightening agent) containing advanced dosage form, niosomes. Thin film hydration technique was used to produce niosomes. The in-vitro stability studies were performed to check different parameters as pH, conductivity and rheology for the period of three months. The particle size, zeta potential, TEM analysis were also conducted. Ex-vivo permeation studies were done using Franz cell on albino rat skin. The particle size of optimum formulation (NA 5) was 445.8nm and zeta potential was -25.2. TEM analysis of niosomes suspension showed round smooth vesicles were formed. In-vitro stability studies showed that there was no significant (p>0.05) change in pH, conductivity and viscosity throughout the study period. The rheological analysis showed that niosomal gel follow pseudoplastic behavior. Ex-vivo permeation studies were showed that percent drug permeated after 24 hours was 42.76±0.02%.The percent drug retained in the skin was 44.95% which was significantly (p<0.05) more as compared to control gel. The targeting efficiency and enhancement ratio were also calculated that were 2.64 and 1.14 respectively. A stable niosomal gel was produced which has improved drug penetration and deposition in the rat skin.