FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF DIFUNISAL-LOADED NANOSTRUCTURED LIPID CARRIER-BASED GEL FOR ENHANCED TOPICAL DRUG DELIVERY

The present study focuses on the development and evaluation of a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC)-based gel formulation for the topical delivery of Diflunisal, a poorly water-soluble non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The objective was to enhance dermal penetration, achieve sustained drug release, and minimize systemic side effects associated with oral administration. NLCs were prepared using cold pressure homogenization followed by ultrasonication, employing a combination of solid and liquid lipids along with a suitable surfactant. The formulation was characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro drug release. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the absence of significant drug-excipient interactions, indicating chemical compatibility. UV spectrophotometric analysis was performed at 258 nm to confirm drug identity and support quantitative analysis. The optimized NLCs were incorporated into a carbopol-based gel and evaluated for physicochemical properties including pH, viscosity, spreadability, and drug content. In vitro diffusion studies demonstrated a sustained release profile of Diflunisal from the NLC gel compared to conventional formulations. These findings suggest that the developed Diflunisal-loaded NLC gel is a promising strategy for improved topical drug delivery, offering enhanced skin penetration, prolonged release, and better therapeutic potential.