Innovative evaluation of topical simvastatin using 3D printed Franz-type cells and rheological testing

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Materials Science

Background:

• Simvastatin (SIM), a lipid-lowering drug, has potential dermatological applications due to its pleiotropic effects.
• Extemporaneously prepared topical formulations offer a novel delivery route for repurposed drugs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the in vitro release and rheological properties of simvastatin from three topical formulations.
• To evaluate the utility of 3D-printed diffusion cells for topical product testing.

Main Methods:

• Formulations prepared from commercial simvastatin tablets.
• Simvastatin content and dissolution assessed via HPLC.
• In vitro release testing using 3D-printed (FDM, PLA) vertical diffusion cells.

Main Results:

• Cream formulation showed optimal simvastatin release characteristics.
• Ointment exhibited highest resistance to rheological changes.
• 3D-printed diffusion cells demonstrated reproducibility and adaptability.
• Thixotropy and dominant elastic behavior observed; formulation base impacted viscosity.

Conclusions:

• Formulation type significantly affects simvastatin release and rheology.
• Low-cost 3D-printed diffusion systems are valuable for preclinical topical research.
• Findings support further development of repurposed simvastatin for dermatological indications.