Development and in-vitro Assessment of Topical Gel of Celecoxib-Loaded Nanosponges for the Rheumatoid Arthritis

Background Osteoarthritis is characterised by degenerative changes, while rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disorder characterised by swelling and inflammation in the synovial membranes of the joints, which leads to bone erosion and joint deformity. Although new drugs have expanded treatment options, severe rheumatoid arthritis can significantly impair physical functions. Methods Using Emulsion Solvent Evaporation technology with a 3 ² -factorial design. Various concentrations of ethyl-cellulose (EC) and poly-vinyl alcohol (PVA) as rate-inhibiting copolymers. The Nanosponges were also tested for particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), entrapment efficacy (EE), and drug loading. It was subjected to physicochemical characterisation using FT-IR, XRD, TEM and SEM. The Carbopol 934P gel was treated with an optimised CENS containing an equal amount of Celecoxib. The celecoxib-loaded NS gel was further tested for viscosity, spreadability, drug diffusion, stability, and skin irritation. Results CENS2 was constituted of Celecoxib, EC, and PVA, with particle size (259 ± 0.63nm), ZP (-7.01 ± 0.01 mV), and %EE (98.1%). The physicochemical tests of the produced NS showed polymer-drug compatibility, efficient drug encapsulation, and that the drug remained non-crystalline within the spherical NS. CENS3 topical gels revealed 86.3% drug diffusion in Franz cells after good drug release. Conclusion The current study suggests that a The CENS3-based gel could improve the transdermal delivery process without inducing skin irritation. Celecoxib Nanosponges gel could prove effective against Rheumatoid arthritis.