Nano vesicular lipid carriers of angiotensin II receptor blocker: Anti-hypertensive and skin toxicity study in focus

Objective: Nanoethosomal carriers of valsartan have been previously prepared, characterized and optimized. A gel formulation of valsartan vesicular lipid carriers was composed of Carbopol((R)) (1% w/w), polyethylene glycol-400 (15% w/w) and triethanolamine (0.5% w/w). The influence of the valsartan nanoethosomal formulation developed on the blood pressure of experimental hypertensive rats, and its potential for skin irritation, are presented in this report. Materials and methods: The experimental rats were divided into three groups; the control group received no treatment (Group A). Group B was administered methyl prednisolone acetate (20 mg/kg/week) for two weeks (hypertensive control). Group C received methyl prednisolone acetate, followed by administration of the valsartan ethosomal formulation. The blood pressure of the rats was measured using a non-invasive rat blood pressure instrument based on the tail-cuff technique. The statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad InStat 3 software. Results and discussion: The treatment group showed a significant (P < 0.05) and constant fall in blood pressure, for up to 48 h. The valsartan ethosomal formulation was found to be effective, with a 34.11% reduction in blood pressure. The formulation's potential for skin irritation was assessed by the Draize irritation score test, which ruled out the possibility of any skin irritation caused by application of the formulation in rats. Conclusion: Our results suggest that nanoethosomes are efficient carriers for transdermal delivery of valsartan, for the management of hypertension.