Design and Evaluation of Pectin Based Matrix for Transdermal Patches of Meloxicam

Transdermal drug delivery system was developed using meloxicam as a model drug. Meloxicam is a non steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug. The suitability of drug with respect to solubility, lower molecular weight and short half life makes this drug as a suitable candidate for administration by transdermal route. The polymer selected for the study is pectin. The polymer is non-toxic and biodegradable in nature. In the present investigation various concentration ratios of polymer were used for the fabrication of the matrix diffusion controlled transdermal drug delivery system by solvent evaporation technique. These transdermal drug delivery systems were characterized for their thickness, weight variation, folding endurance, swelling index, content uniformity, compatibility, In-vitro release and skin irritation studies of the drug from the polymeric matrix. Meloxicam was found to be compatible with pectin as revealed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) studies and showed satisfactory physiochemical characteristics. In-vitro release studies were carried out with modified Franz diffusion cell using pH 7.4 phosphate buffer as receptor medium and it showed controlled release of drug. Thus the prepared transdermal films can be used to achieve controlled release and improved bioavailability of meloxicam.