Formulation and evaluation of Epsom salt-based gel to reduce osteoarthritis pain

Abstract

Epsom salt as Osteoarthritis (OA) pain therapy has been limited to compresses, foot soaks, and baths. Many studies have examined Epsom salt to reduce pain, especially in OA, but Epsom salt formulation in gel form has never been tried, so it needs in-depth scientific evidence. This study aims to formulate an Epsom salt gel and test its effectiveness in reducing pain for OA patients. This is a true-experimental study with a completely randomized design. A total of 22 respondents with OA were included in the trial. In this study, each respondent received five treatments randomly (administration of pure gel (Negative control); Epsom salt gel with a concentration of 2%; 2.5%; 3%, and Diclofenac sodium (Positive control). Respondents' pain scale was assessed at the beginning and the end of each treatment as an outcome in this study. The data were analyzed using One-Way ANOVA and Tukey HSD. Epsom salt gels were successfully made with 2%, 2.5%, and 3% concentrations. The formulation results have met the physical test of gel preparation (organoleptic test, homogeneity, pH, and consistency). The results of clinical trials found that all Epsom salt gel concentrations effectively reduce OA pain levels (p<0.0001 vs. Control negative). Epsom salt gel with a concentration of 3% has a higher effectiveness level than other concentrations (p<0.0001). The effectiveness of Epsom salt gel with a concentration of 3% is almost equivalent to the oral drug diclofenac sodium. In conclusion, Epsom salt gel with a concentration of 3% as a topical drug has significantly reduced OA pain levels.
 Keywords: Epsom Salt Gels; Magnesium Sulfate; Pain; Osteoarthritis