Topical drug delivery systems have gained increasing attention due to their ability to deliver drugs locally at the site of action while minimizing systemic side effects. Diclofenac sodium is a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that exhibits potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity. The present study was aimed at formulating and evaluating diclofenac sodium topical gel using Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) and Carbopol 940 as gelling agents. The gel formulation was prepared using ethanol as solvent, propylene glycol and glycerine as humectants and penetration enhancers, and triethanolamine as neutralizing agent. Methyl paraben and propyl paraben were incorporated as preservatives. The prepared formulations were evaluated for physical appearance, pH, viscosity, spread ability, extrudability and stability at room temperature. The results demonstrated that the prepared gel was homogeneous, smooth and exhibited acceptable physicochemical properties suitable for topical application. Stability studies indicated that the formulation remained stable without significant changes in pH, viscosity or appearance. Therefore, the developed diclofenac sodium gel can be considered suitable for topical treatment of inflammation and pain.
*Rishiraj Tirole, Gourav Trivedi, Shahbaj Ali, Sonam Kukloria (Mon,) studied this question.