Isotretinoin and α-tocopherol acetate-loaded solid lipid nanoparticle topical gel for the treatment of acne

Aims This study was aimed to develop Isotretinoin (ITN) and α-tocopherol acetate (α-TA) loaded solid lipid nanoparticle topical gel for better skin sensitivity and potentiation of efficacy.Methods ITN and α-TA-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (AE-SLN) were prepared by microemulsion method with glyceryl mono-stearate as lipid and tween 80: butanol as surfactantmix and characterised. AE-SLN gel was evaluated for physicochemical characteristics, drug release, skin irritation and anti-acne activity in rats.Results AE-SLNs had mean particle size of 193.4 nm (zeta-potential −29 mV) and entrapment efficiency of 84%w/w for ITN and 77.4%w/w for α-TA. AE-SLN gel showed sustained drug release for 24 h with a final cumulative release of 95.8% w/w and 89.1%w/w for ITN and α-TA. AE-SLN gel showed no erythema or edoema in rabbits and potent efficacy in rat model of acne.Conclusion In conclusion, AE-SLN gel has the potential to use as a non-irritant topical formulation for the treatment of acne.