Preparation, in vitro release and skin absorption of hydrocortisone acetate from a liposome gel

Hydrocortisone acetate (HA) loaded liposomes are prepared using the film/hath sonication method. They are characterized in terms of particle size, drug content and stability. A topical gel formulation containing HA (0.2°/c)-liposome dispersion was formulated. The effect of liposomes upon in vitro drug delivery and in vivo absorption of the drug through the human stratum corneum was studied and compared to a I % HA conventional gel formulation. Hie in vitro release study showed a greater drug amount and release rate from the liposome based gel formulation as compared to the conventional gel formulation. In vivo studies showed higher drug concentrations in skin from the liposome-gel formulation. The results showed an encouraging perspective on the use of liposomal systems for improving topical bioavailability and local pharmacotherapy for HA. A reduction of approximately five-fold the HA dose can be achieved for comparable topical therapeutic activity.