In this paper, we present novel microemulsion (ME)-based semisolid polymer gels designed for topical administration of poorly water soluble non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Indomethacin (IND) was used as a model compound. The ME consisted of castor oil, water, Tween®80 as a surfactant and ethanol as cosurfactant. To obtain the desired consistency of the formulations Carbopol®960 was applied as a thickening agent. The aim of the study was to analyze in detail the mechanical properties of the obtained systems, with special attention paid to the features crucial for topical application. The rheological and textural experiments performed for samples with and without the incorporated drug clearly indicate that flow characteristics, viscoelastic properties and texture profiles were affected by the presence of IND. Novel semisolid formulations with IND described for the first time in this paper can be considered as an alternative for commercially available conventional topical dosage forms.
Keywords: Drug delivery; microemulsions; non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; rheology; texture profile analysis.