Preparation and Characterization of Celecoxib Matrix Transdermal Patches

Transdermal Drug Delivery systems represent a category of topical, self-contained discrete dosage forms designed to deliver drugs at a controlled rate to the systemic circulation when applied to intact skin. This research reports the successful preparation of a Celecoxib transdermal patch using the solvent casting technique. Various plasticizers, including PEG, glycerol, and oleic acid, were employed in combination with different solvent ratios. The formulation incorporated polymers such as methylcellulose, guar gum, HPMC, and ERS 100. In-vitro release tests revealed distinct drug release rates for formulations F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, and F6 over a 6 h. Notably, formulations F3 and F6, utilizing a 30:20 ratio of Ethanol: Chloroform, demonstrated the highest solubility, efficient drug release, and no skin irritation. In contrast, formulations F1 and F2 exhibited slower drug release without causing skin irritation. Formulations F4 and F5, somewhat soluble, resulted in skin irritation. Remarkably, despite using different polymers, formulations F3 and F6, sharing the same solvent ratio and plasticizer, exhibited improved solvent characteristics, release behavior, and no skin irritation. The study concludes that adjusting the solvent type and plasticizer concentration offers a means to control the drug release rate in transdermal patches for Celecoxib, emphasizing the importance of tailored formulation parameters for therapeutic optimization.