Nicotine transdermal patches using polymeric natural rubber as the matrix controlling system: Effect of polymer and plasticizer blends

In this study, novel nicotine (NCT) transdermal patches were prepared using deproteinized natural rubber latex (DNRL) blended with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (SCMC), methyl cellulose (MC), or polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Either dibutylphthalate (DBP) or glycerin (GLY) was used as a plasticizer. These polymer blends were able to form homogeneous mixtures, and the patches were easily prepared by pouring them into a Petri-dish followed by drying in a hot air oven at 70 ± 2 °C. The mechanical properties, moisture uptake, and swelling ratio of the patches depended on the amounts and types of polymer in the blends, and the types of plasticizers used. Fourier transform spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometry and differential scanning calorimetry showed that all the ingredients in the blended patches were compatible. The release of NCT in vitro assay showed a monophasic slow release pattern that was affected by both the amounts and types of polymer without and with plasticizer. Adding plasticizers to polymer blends produced a faster release rate due to their greater hydrophilicity. PVA produced the most suitable polymer blends for the NCT transdermal patches. The release kinetics of NCT from both diffusion and dissolution type patches were confirmed by the first order and Higuchiʹs models, respectively. In contrast, the permeation of NCT from the patches into the skin occurred via zero order kinetics.