Active natural oil-based nanoemulsion containing tacrolimus for synergistic antipsoriatic efficacy.

AIM: The current study is emphasized on development of a nanoemulsion system that simultaneously delivers two antipsoriatic agents viz. Tacrolimus and Kalonji oil (functional excepient) topically.

MATERIALS & METHODS: A nanoemulsion was characterized for quality attributes; a nanoemulsion gel was evaluated for spreadability, viscosity, dermal bioavailability, and in vitro efficacy in A-431 cell line, and so forth. In vivo performance was evaluated on psoriasis model in BALB/c mice.

RESULTS: Nanoemulsion depicted droplet size: 93.37 ± 2.58 nm with PDI (Polydispersity Index) 0.330 ± 0.025. The nanoemulsion gel exhibited desirable spreadability with sustained release pattern (biphasic). Dermal bioavailability enhancement (4.33-fold) accompanied significant in vitro results. A significant reduction in serum cytokines and improvement in psoriatic condition was achieved in vivo, indicating formulation efficacy compared with marketed formulation (Tacroz Forte, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Maharashtra, India).

CONCLUSION: Nanoemulsion gel thus provides an effective alternative for psoriasis treatment.