The use of the Gelot emulsifier in diclofenac sodium semi-solid preparations

In topical formulations, the rheological parameters and pharmaceutical availability of many active agents have been improved by the addition of modern excipients. This translates into increased interest in the topical use of NSAIDs. The aim of this study was to create series of effective oil in water (O/W) diclofenac sodium cream formulations that differ in the applied fatty phase, utilizing Gelot ^TM64 (Gattefosse) (a modern non-ionic emulsifier). In the produced prescriptions, estimation was made of the effect of this on the rheological parameters and the pharmaceutical availability of the diclofenac sodium. Herein, the hydrophilic petrolatum-based cream demonstrated the highest rate of release of the active agent, as well as the best set of beneficial rheological parameters.