Design and Development of Niosomal Delivery System for Ketoprofen: Formulation Development and Evaluation

Niosomes are efficient carriers for controlled drug delivery, to entrap hydrophilic drugs in the larger interior aqueous layer, whereas, lipophilic drugs in the outer lipid bilayer. Since, the niosomes are biodegradable and non toxic and hence, a good carrier for targeting of therapeutic agents at the site of interest with reduced systemic toxicity. Ketoprofen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, degenerative joint conditions and musculoskeletal disorders, involving long term therapy. Ketoprofen has various side effects like gastritis, peptic ulcer and bleeding, along with short biological half life (0.5-2 hrs) which calls for frequent administration. Thus, a novel and controlled drug delivey system need to be developed in order to increase its therapeutic effects with reduced side effects.