Formulation and in-vitro evaluation of Bosewellia Serrata extract loaded transferosomal gel for treatment of osteoarthritis

Objective: The main objective of the current research work was to formulate and evaluate Bosewellia serrata extract loaded transferosomal topical gels. To overcome the drawbacks associated with oral administration of Bosewellia serrata extract in Osteoarthritis treatment.  Methodology: Transferosomes were developed using different ratios of Phospholipon® 90G as phospholipid, Span-60 as surfactant and cholesterol as fluidity buffer. The selected best formulation of transferosomes was further optimized as a topical gel using different rate controlling polymers such as hydroxylethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxyl propyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and, carbopol. Transcutol P was used as a penetration enhancer. In vitro diffusion studies of developed formulations were carried out using Franz diffusion cell apparatus. Results: Formulation BT10 prepared with 2:1 ratio of drug to total lipid, 2:1 ratio of surfactant to total lipid and 3:1 ratio of phospholipid to cholesterol was selected as optimized transferosomes. Further transferosomal gel was formulated by trial and error method, where different polymers considered as gelling agents. Transcutol HP and glycerol used as penetration enhancer and bodying agent respectively. Among the twelve formulations, BG11 (Carbopol 971 in 0.75% w/w) was chosen as the best formulation due to controlled invitro release of the drug with very good viscosity and spreadabilty.