Preparation and Evaluation of N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine Ethosomal Gel for the Treatment of Hyperpigmentation

Abstract

N-acetyl D-glucosamine (NAG) holds clinical significance in treating hyperpigmentation through its ability to inhibit melanin production, support skin barrier functions, and its favorable treatment profile that makes it suitable for various skin types. This study explores the characterisation of NAG and soya lecithin using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectrophotometry and evaluates ethosomal formulations for drug delivery applications. The zeta potential, pH, extrudability, spreadability, viscosity, and in vitro drug release of many ethosomal formulations were evaluated. An in vivo investigation evaluated hyperpigmentation in rats, and stability tests were conducted at 25 °C and 4 °C. The compatibility of both compounds was confirmed by FTIR, which also showed the presence of distinctive peaks. The diameters of particles varied from 649 to 6463 nm, and their zeta potentials fell between − 8.97 and − 18.63 mV. The range of drug entrapment efficiency was considerable, from 97.23 to 99.43%. Over 45 days, stability studies showed few changes. The pH, extrudability, spreadability, and viscosity of ethosomal gels ranged from 5.89 to 6.38, 45.17 to 63.93 gm/cm², and 6.66 to 10 cm, respectively. Zero-order and Korsmeyer models dominated in vitro drug release, which varied from 8.206 to 25.81%. Significant inflammatory alterations consistent with persistent dermatitis were revealed by histopathological examinations in the in vivo investigation. The findings show potential for treating skin problems by showing that ethosomal formulations of NAG are stable and effective for medication delivery.