Formulation and assessment of penetration potential of Risedronate chitosan nanoparticles loaded transdermal gel in the management of osteoporosis: In vitro and ex vivo screening

Abstract

Osteoporosis targeting by transdermal distribution has drawn a lot of attention as a cutting-edge, environmentally friendly platform for sustainable pain management. We investigate a novel biocompatible transdermal gel (RCNGL) containing biodegradable chitosan nanoparticles and Risedronate (RS) to treat osteoporosis. The RCNGL was formulated using the Pluronic F 127 co-polymer system and the ionic gelation process. The formulation showed a robust architecture of nanoparticle dispersion with a nano-size range of 201.8 nm when it was thoroughly analysed for Scanning Electron Microscopy, Dynamic electron Microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. At various temperatures, the entrapment efficiency was 67.53±1.05% with steady rheology and respectable porosity, validating FT-IR spectra that showed structural compatibility of RS with other excipients. The drug release test resulted in an 88% RS gel release, supporting sustained release kinetics. The ex vivo Franz diffusion study and in vitro cell uptake and distribution experiments revealed clear cell uptake and distribution with notable skin permeation displaying >70% RS release in mouse epidermal tissue. Overall, our research shows that biodegradable RCNGL may offer a potential osteoporosis and pain control strategy in clinical platforms using passive targeting.