ABSTRACT
Purpose: The objective of the present investigation was to prepare and evaluate transdermal patches for nicotine. Methods: Pectin isolated from the hulls of Monthong durian or leaves of Krueo Ma Noy was used as a matrix membrane for the controlled release of nicotine and compared with commercial pectin. The mechanical properties, moisture uptake, and Fourier transform infrared spectra were characterized. The in vitro stability of these patches was evaluated and compared to commercial nicotine patches. Results: The mechanical properties of the patches made from isolated pectin were greater than those prepared from commercial pectin; brittle commercial patches were obtained after nicotine loading. The moisture uptake of the patches made with isolated pectin was in the range of 30.20-44.29%. There was no incompatibility between the ingredients of the nicotine transdermal patches or any degradation of the drug. The matrix layer made from isolated pectin controlled the nicotine release more effectively than did commercial nicotine patches. In addition, these patches were stable at in a refrigerator (approximately 4±2 °C) and at ambient temperature (approximately 30±2 °C) for 3 months, retaining 90% of the loaded nicotine. Conclusion: Our study suggests that using isolated pectin as the matrix layer should control the release of nicotine from transdermal patches.
