Hydrogel containing dexamethasone-loaded nanocapsules for cutaneous administration: preparation, characterization, and in vitro drug release study.

Context: Our group previously reported the development of dexamethasone-loaded polymeric nanocapsules as an alternative for topical dermatological treatments. Objective: Our study aimed to prepare and characterize a hydrogel containing this system to improve the effectiveness of the glucocorticoid for cutaneous disorders. Methods: For the antiproliferative activity assay, a dexamethasone solution and D-NC were tested on Allium cepa root meristem model. D-NC were prepared by the interfacial deposition of preformed polymer. Hydrogels were prepared using Carbopol Ultrez® 10 NF, as polymer, and characterized according to the following characteristics: pH, drug content, spreadability, viscosity, and in vitro drug release. Results and Discussion: Nanocapsules showed mean particle size and zeta potential of 201 ± 6 and −5.73 ± 0.42 nm, respectively. They demonstrated a lower mitotic index (4.62%) compared to free dexamethasone (8.60%). Semisolid formulations presented acidic pH values and adequate drug content (...