Investigation of a Gel Formulation Using a Halobetasol–Phospholipid Complex for Managing the Symptoms of Psoriasis

ABSTRACT

Background: Several therapies are available for psoriasis, including oral, parenteral, and phototherapy. However, these treatments present various drawbacks, like mucosal ulceration, stomatitis, bioavailability issues, patient compliance challenges, and hepatic cirrhosis risk. Therefore, it is crucial to mitigate these impacts associated with psoriasis therapy. The goal is to produce a gel using a new halobetasol–phospholipid complex and test its effectiveness for treating psoriasis using an imiquimod-induced psoriasis model and ameliorate the psoriasis symptoms. Objectives: The purpose of the research study is to formulate a topical novel halobetasol-phospholipid complex gel for evaluating its ability against psoriatic symptoms through utilization an imiquimod-induced psoriasis model. Materials and Methods: The halobetasol–phospholipid complex was prepared from the solvent evaporation method. Phospholipid screening of different phospholipids was conducted through solubility studies, and phosphatidylcholine was selected as per its higher solubility for halobetasol. Further, the halobetasol–phosphatidylcholine complex formation and its integration into Carbopol 940 gel formulation were done, and a physical evaluation was performed. The halobetasol–phosphatidylcholine complex was confirmed through various analytical techniques. The estimation of particle size, PDI, and drug content, as well as an assessment of in vitro release and in vivo study, was conducted. The anti-psoriatic efficiency of the halobetasol–phosphatidylcholine complex gel was estimated by the Psoriasis Area Score Index (PASI), and histopathological assessment was analyzed through the imiquimod-induced psoriasis model. Results: The new halobetasol–phosphatidylcholine complex gel has 200 ± 2 nm particle size, a PDI of 0.224 ± 0.05, and an impressive 84% drug content within the complex. Additionally, the in vitro release of the novel halobetasol–phosphatidylcholine complex demonstrates a sustained release in comparison to halobetasol gel, with 52.34% ± 02% and 90.02% ± 02% values. Finally, the PASI and histopathological evaluation show that psoriasis is getting better, while halobetasol gel shows signs of minor keratosis along with hyperkeratosis. Conclusion: In conclusion, it is clear that halobetasol–phosphatidylcholine complex gel provides relief from psoriatic symptoms when applied topically.

KEYWORDS

• Imiquimod
• keratosis
• phosphatidylcholine
• psoriasis
• Psoriasis Area Score Index

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• DOI10.1177/0976500X251347400Copy

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