Effect of additives on the crystallization and the permeation of ketoprofen from adhesive matrix.

The crystallization of drug in a matrix may significantly affect the efficacy and quality of the transdermal drug delivery system. Therefore, the control of drug crystallization is of particular interest in the development of efficient transdermal delivery systems. In this study, we investigated the effects of various additives on the crystallization of ketoprofen in polyisobutylene (PIB) adhesive matrix. The effects of various additives on the permeation of ketoprofen from PIB matrix across hairless mouse skin were also examined. Poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) K-30 was found to be the most effective crystallization inhibitor. Also, Poloxamer, Tween 80 and Labrasol significantly inhibited the crystallization of ketoprofen in a PIB matrix. In case of Tween 80, Labrasol, and PVP K-30, the flux of ketoprofen decreased as the loading content of the additives increased. However, the addition of Tween 80, Labrasol, or PVP K-30 significantly reduced the decrease in the flux of ketoprofen within the PIB matrix during a storage time of 3 weeks.