STATISTICAL OPTIMIZATION OF TOPICAL CREAM CONTAINING VITAMIN D3 NANOPARTICLES FOR ANTI-AGING EFFECT: BOX-BEHNKEN DESIGN

Aging is defined as decreased maximal function and reserve capacity in all body, organs, resulting in an increased likelihood of disease and death. One of the reasons for Premature Aging is deficiency of Vitamin D₃. The main aim of the research work is to develop and evaluate the Nanoparticle based Anti-aging cream of Vitamin D₃ for Premature aging. Six formulations were prepared by Nano precipitation method using Poloxamer 407 as polymeric stabilizer. It was then incorporated into cream base. FT-IR studies were carried out to determine the drug-excipient compatibility. The prepared Nano-suspension was subjected to evaluations including particle size, zeta potential, drug entrapment efficiency and drug content. The formulated cream was tested for pH, Spreadability, Viscosity and in-vitro drug release. From the preliminary trial, F₄ was found to be the best formulation. It was then fitted to Box-Behnken design with three independent variables including concentration of Stearic acid (X₁), KOH (X₂), Glycerine (X₃) and two dependent variables – Spreadability (Y₁) and In-vitro drug release (Y₂). Among the 15 runs, R₂ was found to be the optimized formulation. Stability studies revealed there is no change in the spreadability and ex-vivo permeation from the cream base. The optimized Vitamin D₃ loaded nanoparticle anti-aging cream provides satisfactory release with improved therapeutic effect.