Anti-inflammatory efficacy of a novel diclofenac-loaded liposomal gel in carrageenan-induced paw edema model: a preclinical and radiographic study.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This research investigates the anti-inflammatory efficacy of an innovative liposomal gel formulation containing diclofenac. SIGNIFICANCE: Topical administration of Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) provides significant local therapeutic effects, while substantially lowering the risk of systemic or central adverse effects. However, topically applied NSAIDs have also failed to achieve desired effects. This issue may arise from insufficient cutaneous permeation of active pharmaceutical agents to achieve clinically effective drug levels. Research indicates that effective treatment of joint-related conditions like arthritis necessitates adequate absorption of active compounds into target inflamed tissues, particularly the synovium and synovial fluid within the affected joints. Despite decades of extensive research, the prevailing drug therapies for this purpose are found to be ineffective and unsafe, raising several concerns. METHODS: The carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model was employed, which was followed by radiographic examination of the rat paw. Animals were divided into four different groups, which include a control, placebo, market product, and test formulations. The results obtained were treated with one-way ANOVA and Student's t-test. RESULTS: The lipogel exhibited a significantly higher percentage of inflammation inhibition at all evaluated time intervals (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). These findings highlight both the rapid onset and the sustained duration of its anti-inflammatory activity compared to other formulations. CONCLUSION: The developed lipogel demonstrated strong therapeutic potential, providing immediate as well as long-lasting anti-inflammatory effects.