Ketoprofen: In-vitro release and percutaneous absorption in rats through polymeric gels

Ketoprofen is a potent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug which is used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The oral administration of ketoprofen can cause gastric irritation and renal adverse effects. Topical application of the drug can bypass gastrointestinal disturbances and provide relatively consistent drug levels at the site of action. Since the efficacy of gels depends on the type of gel base and the concentration of the drug, four different polymers (carbopol 940, HPMC K4M, sodium CMC and sodium alginate) were used at different concentrations and 1% concentration of ketoprofen. The general rank order of the drug release was found to be: carbopol > HPMC K4M> sodium CMC > sodium alginate). The in-vivo percutaneous absorption of ketoprofen from different polymer gels was studied by carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. The rank order of the percent edema inhibition was as follows: carbopol > HPMC K4M> sodium CMC > sodium alginate.