Abstract

FORMULATION AND EVALUTION OF ANALGESIC OINTMENT CONTAINING DICLOFENAC SODIUM

Priyanka Raj G.*, Ranjetha A. R., Panchami S., Lakshmi T. N., Mohan Kumar M.

Abstract

Diclofenac sodium ointment is one of the most widely used topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) formulations for the management of pain and inflammation associated with musculoskeletal disorders, osteoarthritis, sprains, strains, sports injuries, and localized soft tissue conditions. Topical administration offers a targeted therapeutic approach by delivering the drug directly to the affected site while minimizing systemic absorption, thereby reducing the risk of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal adverse effects commonly associated with oral NSAIDs. The effectiveness of diclofenac sodium ointment depends on several formulation factors, including the selection of suitable ointment bases, penetration enhancers, stabilizers, preservatives, and other excipients that influence drug release, skin permeation, stability, and patient acceptability. This review summarizes the physicochemical and pharmacological properties of diclofenac sodium, its mechanism of action through cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition, and the formulation strategies employed in topical ointment development. In addition, the article discusses various evaluation parameters such as appearance, pH, viscosity, spreadability, drug content, in vitro drug release, skin irritation, stability, and therapeutic efficacy. Recent advances in topical drug delivery systems and current research trends aimed at improving skin penetration and bioavailability are also highlighted. Overall, diclofenac sodium ointment remains a safe, effective, and patientfriendly topical dosage form for localized pain management, with ongoing research focused on enhancing its clinical performance and therapeutic outcomes.

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