Physicochemical Evaluation and Formulation of Propranolol Niosomal Gel with a Potential Effect on Infantile Hemangioma

Propranolol is a non-specific beta-blocker that is used to treat hypertension, angina, arrhythmia, tremor, and manage thyrotoxicosis. Based on the results of various studies, propranolol can control infantile hemangioma by vasoconstriction, apoptosis induction, and inhibition of cell proliferation signals.

The conventional film hydration method was used to prepare medium size (2-6 m) multilamellar vesicles (MLVs) containing propranolol. At the lipid phase, sorbitan esters (Spans) and their polyethoxylated derivatives (Tweens) were combined with cholesterol, and deionized water was utilized as a hydration medium. Laser light scattering was used to perform the size analysis, and the Franz diffusion cells were utilized to investigate the release of propranolol from niosomal suspensions and carbomer-based niosomal gels. The vesicles were assessed for their stability within six-month storage at 4°C, and ultraviolet spectrophotometer and centrifuge technique were employed to measure the efficiencies of encapsulation.

Based on the findings, the best niosomes were obtained at 40 and 60 spans in the presence of Tween 40 and 60; however, Span/Tween 20 and 80 were not able to form propranolol niosomes. The selected formulations had an MLV appearance and size distribution of 5 μm. Encapsulation efficiency and release rate of selected niosomes were optimal. Niosomes had good stability during six months of storage at refrigerator temperature.

Based on the obtained results in this study, the application of a new topical dosage form of propranolol showed promising results for the treatment of infantile hemangioma.