Development of a novel prolonged-release nicotine transdermal patch.

Abstract

A transdermal patch for delivering nicotine for periods of 12-48h was designed. An inclusion complex formed between the nicotine and beta-cyclodextrine (beta-CD) was used in drug depot. The usefulness of a specially cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol (cross-PVA) membrane was investigated as a rate controlling membrane. The influence of carbopol polymers, type C-934P and C-940 and propylene glycol on transdermal permeation of nicotine through the rat skin was investigated. The results indicated a maximum flux of 42 microgcm(-2)h(-1) after 48 h from the patches made from C-934P when the propylene glycol concentration was 15% and the nicotine-beta-CD mole ratio in the inclusion complex was 3:1. These nicotine transdermal patches can be fabricated to obtain a controlled release, zero order systems.