Copyright (c) 2026 K.Venkatesh, Kore Akhila, Kovi Naveena, Kurapati Jyothi, Kurla Meenakshi, Lavudya Sairam, Kantlam
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Formulation and Evaluation of Tacrolimus Transdermal Gel
Corresponding Author(s) : K.Venkatesh
International Journal of Allied Medical Sciences and Clinical Research,
Vol. 14 No. 3 (2026): 2026 Volume -14 - Issue 3
Abstract
The present study was aimed at the formulation and evaluation of Tacrolimus transdermal gel using different polymers in varying ratios to develop an effective transdermal drug delivery system with improved drug release characteristics. Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressive agent widely used in the management of inflammatory and autoimmune skin disorders. Transdermal delivery offers several advantages, including avoidance of first-pass metabolism, improved patient compliance, and sustained drug release.
Tacrolimus transdermal gels were prepared using different polymers such as Carbopol 934, HPMC K5, and HPMC K15, either alone or in combination at different concentrations and ratios. The prepared formulations were evaluated for various physicochemical parameters, including appearance, homogeneity, pH, viscosity, spread ability, and drug content. Compatibility studies confirmed the absence of any significant interaction between the drug and excipients used in the formulations.
All prepared formulations exhibited satisfactory physicochemical properties and complied with the acceptable limits specified by the Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP). The formulations were further subjected to in-vitro drug release studies to evaluate their release characteristics. The results indicated that the type and concentration of polymers significantly influenced the release behaviour of Tacrolimus from the gel matrix.
Among all the formulations, formulation F9 was identified as the optimized formulation based on its superior evaluation parameters and drug release profile. F9 exhibited the highest cumulative drug release of 97.82% within 300 minutes, demonstrating better release characteristics compared to the other formulations. The optimized polymer ratio provided an effective gel matrix that facilitated controlled and enhanced drug release.
The study concluded that Tacrolimus transdermal gel formulated with an optimized combination of polymers can serve as a promising alternative for transdermal drug delivery, offering improved drug release and potential therapeutic benefits.