ABSTRACT
Objective: To prepare the ethosomes-based gel of demethylzeylasteral (DMZ) and to investigate its properties and transdermal absorption behavior. Methods: The infusion method was used to prepare DMZ ethosomes. The particle size, entrapment efficiency (EE), analysis methodology, and in vitro release behavior were examined, respectively. The in vitro transdermal absorption of ethosomes-based gel of DMZ was evaluated by Franz diffusion cells. Results: The DMZ ethosomes was yellowish emulsion. The average particle size of the ethosomes was (365.2 ± 14.4) nm and the EE was (72.30 ± 2.31)%. The cumulative permeation curve of DMZ in ethosomes-based gel was consistent with Higuchi equation (Q=80.198 t1/2-71.641, r=0.986 8). Compared with common gel, the ethosomes-based gel had 3.94 times higher cumulative permeation amount in 24 h. Conclusion: The prepared ethosomes- based gel of DMZ could enhance the transdermal permeation, which provides evidence for the development of transdermal drug delivery system of DMZ.