Formulation and development of a topical combination cream for arthritis management

Purpose: To design and prepare a non-prescription cream for cost-effective, potent, rapid and long-lasting relief from arthritic pain. Method: The cream was prepared by formulating the aqueous phase using glucosamine sulphate, potassium chloride and chondroitin sulphate sodium, and then pouring it into the oil phase under suitable conditions. The physicochemical and antimicrobial properties, in vitro and ex vivo drug release, and overall physical and chemical stability of the formulations were characterized. Results: Sodium metabisulfite (0.5 %) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) (0.01 %) showed a very strong synergistic effect on overall stability of the cream. Conclusion: This study confirms that the formulated cream is potentially suitable for the management of arthritis pain in patients.