ETHOSOMES: A NOVEL VESICULAR CARRIER FOR TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY

Sushmitha Rai*, Bhavyashree T, Krishnanandh Kamath K. and Shabaraya A. R.

ABSTRACT

Transdermal drug delivery system is a type of convenient drug delivery system where drug goes to the systemic circulation through the protective barrier i.e., skin which is the main target of topical and transdermal preparations. Major aim of transdermal drug delivery system is to cross the stratum corneum. Vesicular system is one of the most controversial methods for transdermal drug delivery system. Ethosomes are non-invasive delivery carriers that enable drugs to reach the deep skin layers and/or the systemic circulation. Ethosomal system comprises of phospholipids, high concentration of ethanol and water. Characterization of ethosomes include Particle size, Zeta potential, Differential Scanning Colorimetry, Entrapment Efficiency etc. The purpose of writing this review on ethosomes drug delivery is to compile the focus on the various aspects of ethosomes including their mechanism of penetration, advantages, composition, preparation, characterization, and applications.

Keywords: Ethosomes, vesicular system, phospholipids, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency.