Development and Evaluation of Nano-Emulsion Transdermal Patch for Delivery of Meloxicam in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and progressive cartilage destruction, significantly affecting patient quality of life. Conventional oral administration of antiinflammatory drugs such as meloxicam is often associated with gastrointestinal side effects and variable bioavailability due to first-pass metabolism. The present study focuses on the development of a nano-emulsion based transdermal patch for the controlled delivery of meloxicam to enhance therapeutic efficacy and minimize systemic adverse effects. Nano-emulsions were formulated using suitable oils, surfactants, and co-surfactants, followed by incorporation into a polymeric transdermal patch system. The prepared formulations were evaluated for physicochemical parameters including droplet size, zeta potential, drug content, viscosity, and stability. The transdermal patches were further assessed for thickness, folding endurance, moisture content, drug release, and permeation studies using suitable membranes. The optimized formulation demonstrated improved drug permeation and sustained release behavior compared to conventional dosage forms. The study suggests that nanoemulsion based transdermal patches could serve as a promising alternative for effective and patient-friendly delivery of meloxicam in the management of rheumatoid arthritis.

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