NLC as a potential carrier system for transdermal delivery of forskolin*

Abstract

NLC (nanostructured lipid carriers), composed with substances of GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status, were obtained by using the hot high pressure homogenization technique (HPH). The influence of number of homogenization cycles and concentration of a surfactant (decyl glucoside) on NLC properties were studied. The systems stability was assessed by macroscopic observation, light backscattering and zeta potential measurements. NLC particle size was measured by means of dynamic light scattering (DLS). The kinetically stable formulations were loaded with forskolin and selected for in vitro drug permeation study (Franz cell method). The concentration of forskolin in the receptor solution (i.e. Ethanol/PBS mixture) was analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV detection. The obtained results have shown that NLC formulations could be used as effective carriers for forskolin permeation through the skin.