DEVELOPMENT AND IN-VITRO EVALUATION OF MATRIX-TYPE TRANSDERMAL PATCHES OF LOSARTAN POTASSIUM

Objective: Since last decade drugs through skin has received great attention of many researchers. The aim of present study was designed to develop a suitable matrix type transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) of Losartan potassium. Methods: Four transdermal patches formulations of Losartan potassium were prepared by using different polymers using blends of different polymers like polyvinylpyrrolidone K30 (PVP K30) and ethylcellulose (EC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and chitosan. Physical studies including thickness, folding endurance moisture content, tensile strength and flatness were performed on all formulations. In-vitro diffusion study of 10 hrs was performed by means of Franz diffusion cell. Results: Thickness of four prepared patches lies in the range of 0.30 to 0.33 mm. Percent moisture content was found to be in the range of 2.56 to 3.44. The cumulative percent drug release after 10 hrs in between 38.41 to 80.41%. Stability study performed on selective batch, TP1 for 12 weeks at different temperature indicates stability of transdermal patches at room temperature. Conclusion:Present study concluded that Losartan potassium can be formulated into the transdermal matrix type patches to sustain its release characteristics. Polymeric composition of batch TP1 (PVP K30: Chitosan: 70:30) was found to be the best choice for manufacturing transdermal patches of Losartan potassium among the formulations studied.