Evaluation of Compounded Transdermal Analgesic Formulations Using the Franz Finite Dose Model

To evaluate the transdermal delivery of six analgesic drugs (i.e., ketamine, gabapentin, clonidine, lidocaine, ketoprofen, and amitriptyline) that were compounded into three commercially available bases, Salt Stable LS Base, Transdermal Pain Base, and Lipoderm ActiveMax Base, the Franz finite dose model was used for an in vitro penetration study using porcine skin over 48 hours. Rapid penetration with a steady-state flux after the first 24 hours was detected in all the formulations. The present study demonstrates the successful delivery of six compounded analgesic drugs, using all of the noted bases. A high flux rate within 1 hour to 4 hours of application would correlate to effective pain relief, and the prolonged delivery over the first 24 hours would reduce the need for frequent reapplication. This can aid in pain management with the potential for enhanced pain control.