Nasal Absorption of Nifedipine from Gel Preparations in Rats

Nasal absorption of nifedipine from polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400, aqueous Carbopol gel and Carbopol-PEG gel was investigated with the aim of obtaining high bioavailability and prolonged action. Nasal administration of nifedipine in PEG resulted in rapid absorption and high maximum concentration (C max). However, the elimination of nifedipine from plasma was very rapid. Nifedipine plasma concentration after nasal administration of nifedipine in aqueous Carbopol gel was very low. On the other hand, Carbopol-PEG gel (containing 50% w/v PEG) showed a relatively high nifedipine concentration and a prolonged action.