Development of Polymeric Nanoparticles with Controlled Drug Release for Dermal Application

The study developed dexamethasone-loaded polymeric nanoparticles for controlled drug release in dermal applications, aiming to reduce corticosteroid side effects and enhance treatment efficacy. Ethyl cellulose and Eudragit® RS nanoparticles were prepared, with a blend of both yielding small, positively charged nanoparticles with adequate drug loading. In vitro and ex vivo tests showed that drug release and penetration were slower from nanoparticles compared to conventional creams, with ethyl cellulose nanoparticles being sebum-responsive. The study concluded that these nanoparticles effectively controlled corticosteroid release and penetration in the skin and hair follicles. Different in vitro drug release methods were assessed, with Franz diffusion cells providing the highest reproducibility.