Effect of terpenes on transdermal iontophoretic delivery of diclofenac potassium under constant voltage

Objective: The aim of the study was to enhance the transdermal delivery of diclofenac potassium (DP) from hydrogels by constant voltage iontophoresis (CVI). The other objective was to establish the safety and efficacy of CVI in rats. Materials and methods: Hydrogels of DP were developed using hydroxyethyl cellulose as matrix material and geraniol, l-menthol and thymol as iontophoretic efficiency enhancers (IEE). In vitro permeation of hydrogels under CVI (1.5 V) was performed in Franz diffusion cells across porcine skin. The ability of CVI to deliver therapeutic amount of DP in vivo was assessed in rat paw edema model. Results: CVI significantly (p