Abstract

TOPICAL GEL FORMULATION FOR DYSMENORRHEA: ADDRESSING PAIN WITHOUT HORMONAL SIDE EFFECT

Isha Sharma, Komal Pathania, Bhartendu Sharma* and Sheetal Sharma

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Abstract

Menstrual cramps, referred to medically as dysmenorrhea, are a common gynecological issue that many women encounter during their reproductive years. However, myths and taboos have always surrounded it, restricting women's participation in certain social activities. This topic has been observed as a taboo for a long time in India. Many civilizations have taboos surrounding menstruation, which affect women's and girls' emotional health, attitude, lifestyle, and most importantly their health. Our society remains unaware of the scientific foundations behind certain traditions, including those related to menstruation, a regular cycle with concomitant limitations, has taken on more religious undertones. Although synthetic medications are available, like oral contraceptives and NSAIDs, most women avoid clearly due to side effects like irregular menstruation, hormone imbalances, and implications on a woman's ability to conceive after long-term use. Although there are a few more product which give us relief from pain like roll-on, Period patches have their benefits, but they also come with certain drawbacks. But topical formulation specially gel have less side effect. Menthol, eucalyptus, turmeric has significant anti-inflammatory and anti-dysmenorrheal properties. The pharmacological action and permeability rate are enhanced by the addition of excipients. The formulation quickly penetrates the stratum corneum. The formulation contains menthol, which is beneficial in treating nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea associated with dysmenorrhea because of its cooling and anti-spasmodic properties. Eucalyptus and turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties which help to decrease the inflammation by inhibiting the key cytokines and pro-inflammatory mediators. The gel proves to be significantly more effective than traditional NSAIDs, is simple to use, and will not disrupt the menstrual cycle.

Keywords: Myth, Facts, Dysmenorrhea, NSAIDs, Menstrual cycle, Topical Gel.