Formulation and Optimization of a Transdermal Drug Delivery System of Pueraria tuberosa for the Management of Osteoarthritis

Introduction: Osteoarthritis is the fifth leading cause of disability, affecting 10% of the population globally. Current therapies have many negative effects and do not address the underlying cause of the illness. There is not a single such medicinally potent product accessible to treat the disease and slow its progression. Pueraria tuberosa has shown favourable outcomes in the management of osteoarthritis. Material and Method: The current work uses a central composite design to create and optimize a unique herbal medication delivery system of Pueraria tuberosa. The impact of chi-tosan and polyvinyl acetate (PVA) on elongation and drug release has been evaluated using the central composite layout. Drug release, in vivo drug permeation, and UV were used to evaluate transdermal patches (using egg membrane) and drug release kinetics. The formulation's anti-arthritic properties were investigated using the FCA model. Results: Preparation-related factors significantly impacted the physical and chemical features of compositions. Drug release and elongation values of the formulations increased with higher concentrations of Chitosan and a decrease in the level of PVA. Drug release kinetic study indicated the medication adhered to the Higuchi model. Compared to the disease-control and diclofenac-treated mice, the drug-treated mice show substantially higher locomotor activity. Histological investigations showed that compared to animals with diseases, animals on medication had much fewer inflammatory cells in their synovium. Discussion: The optimized formulation with higher Chitosan and lower PVA concentrations enhanced drug release and therapeutic efficacy following the Higuchi model. Improved locomotor activity and reduced synovial inflammation in treated mice confirmed superior anti-inflammatory potential. Conclusion: The findings showed that to create dependable, secure, and potent formulations that rival synthetic medications, additional herbs and their mixtures should be investigated, and more and more clinical trials must be conducted.