FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF METHOTREXATE AND RUTIN TOPICAL HYDROGEL FOR TREATMENT OF PSORIASIS

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder characterized by hyperproliferation of keratinocytes, erythematous plaques, and scaling, significantly affecting the quality of life of patients. Conventional systemic therapies such as methotrexate are effective but are associated with serious adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity and gastrointestinal complications, which limit long-term use. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a topical hydrogel containing Methotrexate and Rutin for the effective management of psoriasis. Methotrexate acts by inhibiting keratinocyte proliferation and suppressing inflammatory responses, while Rutin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that may enhance therapeutic efficacy and reduce drug-induced toxicity.
The hydrogel formulation was developed using suitable hydrophilic polymers to achieve optimal viscosity, spreadability, drug release, and patient acceptability. The prepared formulations were evaluated for physicochemical characteristics including appearance, pH, homogeneity, viscosity, spreadability, drug content uniformity, and in vitro drug release profile. The combination hydrogel demonstrated satisfactory formulation characteristics with sustained drug release and improved skin retention properties. The synergistic action of Methotrexate and Rutin provided enhanced anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes while minimizing systemic adverse effects.
The study concludes that Methotrexate-Rutin topical hydrogel represents a promising, safe, and effective alternative to conventional psoriasis therapies and may offer improved patient compliance and targeted drug delivery for long-term disease management.