Aceclofenac cocrystal nanoliposomes for rheumatoid arthritis with better dermatokinetic attributes: a preclinical study.

AIM: The aim of present research was to complex aceclofenac with lysine (LYS) and the developed aceclofenac-LYS cocrystal was encapsulated in lipid bilayers of liposomes by employing dual carrier approach for the treatment of pain-related disorders in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

MATERIALS & METHODS: The developed carriers were characterized for particle size, drug release, ex vivo and in vivo studies, dermatokinetic modeling, complete freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced RA rat model, radiant heat tail-flick method, formalin-induced paw-licking model, paw edema model and xylene-induced ear edema model in mice.

RESULTS: The developed nanoliposomes offered nanometric size, controlled drug release and enhanced drug permeation. Further, hydrogel incorporated nanoproduct was found to be rheologically acceptable and substantially compatible with rodent skin.

CONCLUSION: The studies indicated the superiority of LYS-conjugated liposome-entrapped nanocarriers for improved management of conditions like RA over the marketed product.