ABSTRACT
Objective: To optimize the matrix formulation of Hanbishu Cataplasma (HC) and to investigate its realease and transdermal absorption properties in vitro. Methods: To optimize the cataplasma with liquid extract by D-optimal mixture design, using initial bonding strength, endurance bonding strength, and gel strength as evaluating indicators, and to validate the optimal formulation. Modified Franz diffusion cells were used to study the in vitro release and transdermal absorption of osthole in the HC. Results: The matrix formulation of HC was as follows: NP700 6.97 g, aluminum glycinate 0.30 g, tartaric acid 0.25 g, glycerin 35.00 g, PVP K90 3.87 g, water 43.61 g, and Hanbishu liquid extract 10 g. Cumulative release rate of osthole in HC was (63.30 ± 0.05)% in 24 h. The percutaneous penetration rate of osthole was 0.16 μg/(cm2∙h) and the 24 h permeated amount was (3.61 ± 0.32) μg/cm2. Conclusion: The optimal prescription of HC optimized by D-optimal mixture design has good adhesion and formability. In vitro release characteriistics of osthole in HC conform to the first dynamical equation, and the transdermal absorption behavior is a zero-order kinetics.