The relevance of nanotechnology, hepato-protective agents in reducing the toxicity and augmenting the bioavailability of isotretinoin

Acne Vulgaris is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin disorders that affect majority of teen-agers worldwide. Isotretinoin (ITT) is the drug of choice in the management of acne, but, it suffers from serious side-effects including hepatotoxicity, and some psychological disturbances following its oral intake. The objective of this study was to develop and optimize ITT loaded nanoemulsions (ITT-SNEDDS) and to incorporate resveratrol (RSV)in optimum formulation to decrease ITT side effects The ITT solubility was first tested in various essential oils, surfactants, and co-surfactants to select the essential nanoemulsion ingredients. Mixture design was applied to study the effect of independent variables and their interactions on the selected dependent responses. The developed ITT-SNEDDS were characterized for their globule size and ex vivo permeation. The optimized batch was further loaded with RSV and evaluated for in vitro and ex vivo permeation and for in vivo hepatotoxicity. The developed ITT-SNEDDS exhibited globule size below 300 nm, up to 272.27 ± 7.12 mcg/cm2.h and 61.27 ± 2.83% of steady-state flux (JSS) and permeability % respectively. Optimum formulation consisted of 0.15 g oil mixture, 0.6 g of surfactant (Labrasol), and 0.250 g co-surfactant (Transcutol). Permeability studies confirmed the enhanced permeation percentage of ITT (40.77 ± 1.18%), and RSV (29.94 ± 2.02%) from optimized formulation, with enhanced steady-state flux (JSS). In vivo studies demonstrated the superior hepatoprotective activity of optimized formulation compared to a different drug formulations and marketed product. Therefore, RVS loaded ITT-SNEDDS might be a successful strategy for acne management with improved action, and minimum side effects.