Characterization and Permeation Studies of Diltiazem Hydrochloride-ficus Reticuleta Fruit Mucilage Transdermal Patches

The main objective of the present study was to develop matrix-moderated transdermal systems of Diltiazem HCl using various proportions of Ficus reticuleta fruit mucilage. Physical evaluation was performed such as moisture content, moisture uptake, tensile strength, flatness and folding endurance. In-vitro penetration studies were performed in a Keshary-Chien diffusion cell. The matrix-type transdermal systems were prepared using Diltiazem HCl with Ficus reticuleta fruit mucilage by the solvent evaporation technique. The interactions between Diltiazem HCl and Ficus reticuleta fruit mucilage were performed. The transdermal patches were subjected to various physicochemical parameters viz. mechanical properties, permeation studies and skin irritation studies. The prepared patches possessed satisfactory pre-formulary and formulary characteristics. In vitro permeation studies were performed using a Keshary-Chien diffusion cell across hairless Albino rat skin. The non-ionic surfactants Span 80, Glycerin, Propylene glycol in the formulation played a role as permeability enhancer. The patches were seemingly free of potentially hazardous skin irritation. The experimental results shows that the release of drug from the patch delayed in controlled manner as the proportion of Ficus reticuleta increased. It was concluded that Diltiazem HCl can be developed as a transdermal patches with Ficus reticuleta fruit mucilage