Formulation and evaluation of topical gel of Meloxicam with β-Cyclodextrin complex

Skin delivery of NSAIDs offers several advantages over the oral route associated with potential side effects. The present research has been undertaken with the aim to develop a topical gel formulation of Meloxicam, which would attenuate the gastrointestinal relater toxicities associated with oral administration. Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activity through inhibition of prostaglandinsynthetase, via inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes. This study was designed to enhance the solubility of Meloxicam by preparing its inclusion complex with β-cyclodextrin and formulating gels using Carbopol 940 and HPMC E 6. The gels were evaluated for release through goat abdominal skin. It was observed that the formulation containing complex (DCG 2) was good in all respects.