Methyl Salicylate-Loaded Nanogel: A Novel Approach for the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a recurring and chronic autoimmune disorder that causes joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation because the immune system attacks the joints. RA is a disease that affects the quality of life of nearly 1% of the entire population worldwide. The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is also affected by the side effects associated with conventional treatments, oral and injectable medications, poor adherence to treatment, and low long-term treatment responses. A widespread unofficially recognized use of salicylic acid is as a skin analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent in the form of methyl salicylate, an ester form of salicylic acid that inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase and the synthesis of prostaglandins. It, however, has restrictions in usage, as although its toxicity is low, it has poor skin penetration. Newer systems of drug delivery to the skin, such as nanogels, can increase methyl salicylate bioavailability, solubility, and skin retention and achieve controlled release to minimize systemic toxicity. This paper discusses the epidemiology and pathogenesis of RA, the pharmacology of salic/meprobamate drugs, nanogel formulation procedures, mechanisms of skin interactions, drug release, and drug tests. New patents and commercial preparations are addressed, and the use of methyl salicylate-impregnated nanogels as new transdermal drugs is discussed. Overall, this treatment method may revolutionize RA management since there are no side effects, the treatment is effective, and this solution is more friendly than conventional methods are.