FORMULATION, OPTIMIZATION AND EVALUATION OF NORFLOXACIN TRANSDERMAL PATCH FOR ANTI-BACTERIAL ACTIVITY

Objective: This investigation aimed to formulate, optimize and evaluate the matrix-type transdermal patch of norfloxacin for antibacterial activity by incorporating different polymer concentrations and penetration enhancers. Methods: Nine formulations were prepared by a solvent evaporation method using ethyl cellulose dibutyl phthalate, tea tree oil, and tulsi oil at concentrations (0.25%, 0.5%, 1%) as penetration enhancers. Characterization done FTIR, DSC, SEM, skin permeation study and antibacterial activity. The patch has uniform weight and low moisture content based on physicochemical evaluation and in vitro characterization. The FTIR shows no or very minor changes in main drug peaks in the IR spectra of a mixture of drug and pure drug. SEM shows smooth surface and uniform drug distribution. In skin permeation study, a combination of tea tree oil and tulsi oil showeaug two-fold increase in drug relea, indicatinged Higuchi release kinetics. Result: 2-fold increase in permeation of transdermal patch as compared to pure drug. Conclusion: Norfloxacin could be delivered through the transdermal patches by incorporating natural permeation enhancers and combining hydrophobic and hydrophilic polymers.