Ethosomes: A Novel Approach in Transdermal Drug Delivery System

Abstract

Transdermal drug delivery system was first introduced more than 20
years ago. Transdermal drug delivery system is a type of convenient drug
delivery system where drug goes to the systemic circulation through the
protective barrier i.e. skinis the main target of topical and transdermal
preparations. Major aim of transdermal drug delivery system is to cross
the stratum corneum. Vesicular system is one of the most controversial
methods for transdermal drug delivery system. Ethosomes are noninvasive delivery carriers that enable drugs to reach the deep skin layers
and/or the systemic circulation. Ethosomes are innovative novel
vesicular system. Ethosomes are composed of phospholipid, alcohol,
polyglycol and water. Ethanol increases the penetration rate of the skin
and delivers the drug into the deeper layers of skin.
These systems are more efficient in delivering substances to the skin because of the presence of ethanol,
Ethosomes are simple to prepare and safe to use. The purpose of this review is to focus on various aspects
of ethosomes including their mechanism of penetration, preparation, composition, characterization, and
application of ethosomes.