Publication
2026
Piroxicam a Versatile Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agent for Inflammatory Disorders
M.M. ROKADE
— HOD
This is an Open Access Journal / article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License
(CC BY-NC-ND 3.0) which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the
original work is properly cited.
A powerful member of the oxicam class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), piroxicam has attracted a lot of interest due to its wide range of effectiveness in treating inflammatory conditions. For chronic illnesses such rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, Piroxicam provides a practical and efficient treatment alternative due to its lengthy half-life and once daily dosage. As part of its pharmacodynamic profile, it inhibits the cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which lowers the production of prostaglandins that cause fever, discomfort, and inflammation.
Piroxicam also shows promising results in postoperative inflammation and acute musculoskeletal injuries. Despite its therapeutic advantages, gastrointestinal and renal adverse effects must be carefully considered, especially when using it for an extended period of time. The pharmacological adaptability of Piroxicam, its therapeutic uses, and the risk-benefit analysis that is essential for maximizing patient outcomes in the treatment of inflammatory diseases are all highlighted in this review.
Keywords: Piroxicam, NSAID, Rhumatoid arthritis, Osteoarthritis
Research Paper
2026
Lipid–polymer conjugated nanocarriers of ferulic acid for obesity intervention via oxidative stress regulation
DR. S.M. BHADANE
— ASSO.PROFESSOR
Objective: Ferulic acid (FA) has antioxidant and metabolic benefits, but its use in obesity treatment is limited by poor solubility, low permeability, and rapid clearance. This study developed a chitosan-conjugated hybrid polymer–lipid nanocarrier to improve FA oral bioavailability and anti-obesity activity.
Methods: FA-loaded nanocarriers were prepared by emulsification–solvent evaporation and probe sonication. The formulation was optimized using a central composite design with 17 experimental runs. Particle size, PDI, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, and in vitro release were evaluated. Anti-obesity efficacy was tested in high-fructose diet-induced obese Sprague–Dawley rats, with six animals per group. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s test at p < 0.05.
Results: The optimized formulation, F8, showed a particle size of 110.3 ± 0.2 nm, PDI of 0.241 ± 0.02, zeta potential of −37.21 ± 0.21 mV, encapsulation efficiency of 86.96 ± 4.4%, and drug loading of 17.39 ± 3.2%. It provided sustained release of 80.24 ± 2.6% over 24 hours and followed Korsmeyer–Peppas kinetics. In vivo treatment significantly reduced insulin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL, while increasing HDL compared with high-fructose controls. It also reduced oxidative stress and improved lipid metabolism, indicating restoration of redox-sensitive metabolic pathways.
Conclusion: The optimized FA nanocarrier improved drug delivery, sustained release, metabolic parameters, and anti-obesity efficacy, supporting its potential for oral obesity management.
Research Paper
2026
Formulation & Evaluation of Herbal Emulgel of Ziziphus Mauritiana Root Extract for Its Antimicrobial Potential.
Prof.(Dr.) Raman R Chandak
— PROFESSOR
Objective: To develop and evaluate a Ziziphus mauritiana root extract emulgel for antimicrobial activity, physicochemical properties, phytochemical screening, and chemical characterization.
Significance: Antimicrobial research supports the development of antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals used to prevent and treat infections. It also helps make procedures such as chemotherapy, organ transplantation, and major surgeries safer by reducing infection risks.
Methods: Antibacterial activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method against selected bacterial strains. Aqueous and ethanol extracts at concentrations of 20–320 mg/mL were tested, and inhibition zones were measured after incubation at 37 °C for 24 hours.
Results: UV-Visible spectroscopy confirmed the extract at absorption maxima of 309 nm and 310.8 nm. Emulgel batches F2, F4, F5, and F6 were considered the best. F1 failed due to a high extract concentration, while F3 failed because heating caused colour variation. F1 was pale yellow, smooth, pleasantly scented, had a pH of 6, viscosity of 45,762 cps, and caused no skin irritation. F2 and F4 showed stronger antibacterial activity against E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, but were inactive against Bacillus species.
International Journal Of Pharmacognosy
Publication
2026
Development, Characterization and Evaluation of Ethosome-Loaded Minocycline Gel for Topical Treatment of Acne Vulgaris
DR. S.M. BHADANE
— ASSO.PROFESSOR
ABSTRACT: Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disorder requiring effective localized treatment. Conventional therapies are associated with poor skin penetration and systemic side effects. The present study aimed to develop and evaluate an ethosome-loaded minocycline gel for enhanced topical delivery.
Ethosomes were prepared using the cold method and incorporated into a Carbopol gel base. The formulations were evaluated for physicochemical properties, particle size, zeta potential, in-vitro drug release, antibacterial activity, cytotoxicity, and stability.
The optimized formulation (F3) showed a particle size of 220 nm, zeta potential of −33.45 mV, pH of 5.8, and sustained drug release of 92% over 120 minutes. The formulation exhibited significant antibacterial activity (zone of inhibition: 16 mm) and minimal cytotoxicity in HaCaT cell lines. Stability studies confirmed no significant changes over 30 days.
The study concludes that ethosome-loaded minocycline gel enhances drug penetration, provides sustained release, and offers a promising alternative for acne treatment.
KEYWORDS
Ethosomes, Minocycline, Acne vulgaris, Topical drug delivery, Nanocarrier
Publication
2026
DEVELOPMENT AND ASSESSMENT OF ANTI-DANDRUFF HAIR MASK CONTAINING NIGELLA SATIVA OIL AND ANNONA SQUAMOSA SEED POWDER
Jyoti S. Shinde
— ASST.PROFESSOR
This study focuses on the development of a herbal anti-dandruff hair mask using Nigella sativa oil and Annona squamosa seed powder. The formulation is designed to provide a natural, safe, and effective solution for dandruff while supporting healthy scalp and hair.
Objective: To develop and evaluate a herbal anti-dandruff hair mask containing Nigella sativa oil and Annona squamosa seed powder as a natural and effective alternative to synthetic anti-dandruff formulations.
Significance: Dandruff is a common scalp disorder associated with fungal infection, irritation, and hair loss. Herbal formulations rich in antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory phytoconstituents offer a safer approach with minimal adverse effects while promoting scalp and hair health.
Methods: The herbal hair mask was prepared by emulsification using Nigella sativa oil, Annona squamosa seed powder, olive oil, stearic acid, cetostearyl alcohol, Span 80, Tween 80, sodium benzoate, and purified water. Five formulations (F1–F5) were prepared and evaluated for organoleptic characteristics, pH, spreadability, washability, foamability, dirt dispersion, solid content, homogeneity, patch test, and pharmacognostic parameters. Preformulation studies included organoleptic evaluation, solubility analysis, UV spectroscopic characterization, and phytochemical screening.
Results: Among the five formulations, F5 demonstrated the best overall performance with a pH of 4.7, spreadability of 23 g·cm/s, foam volume of 78 mL, solid content of 2%, good washability, smooth texture, pleasant odor, excellent homogeneity, and no signs of skin irritation in the patch test. Pharmacognostic evaluation confirmed the presence of amino acids and alkaloids. UV spectroscopic analysis of Nigella sativa oil showed a maximum absorbance at 262 nm, confirming its characteristic phytochemical profile. The optimized formulation exhibited effective cleansing ability with mild dirt dispersion and desirable cosmetic characteristics suitable for scalp application.
Conclusion: The developed herbal hair mask containing Nigella sativa oil and Annona squamosa seed powder successfully demonstrated desirable physicochemical properties, good stability, scalp compatibility, and effective anti-dandruff potential. The optimized formulation (F5) provides a safe, eco-friendly, and cost-effective herbal alternative to conventional synthetic anti-dandruff products while improving scalp health and hair quality.
KEYWORDS
Herbal hair mask; Nigella sativa; Annona squamosa; Anti-dandruff; Herbal cosmetics; Emulsification technique
Publication
2026
Extraction, Evaluation and Formulation of Herbal V -Wash from Hibiscus Rosa Sinensis
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
— Associate Professor
The main aim of the present study is to formulate an effective herbal V Wash of white hibiscus flowers, which can produce a better antibacterial activity against various bacterial infections.
Hibiscus rosa sinensis, a plant from the Malvaceae family, is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical climates, with around 40 species found in India. Known for its diverse medicinal properties, hibiscus is used to treat various ailments such as amoebic colitis, abdominal pain, cold, cough, diarrhea, headache, and ulcers. It contains bioactive compounds exhibiting anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifertility, antifungal, and antihypertensive activities. The plant's leaves, flowers, roots, and bark are integral in traditional medicine across several cultures. Hibiscus has applications in teas, tinctures, cosmetics, essential oils, and the food and pharmaceutical industries.
The therapeutic value of hibiscus extends globally, from anti-diarrheal treatments in Japan to diuretic uses in Egypt, establishing it as a key component in herbal remedies. It was found that F1 batch is pale yellowish in colour and smooth texture with pleasant odour with pH of 3.98, viscosity is 1042 m.Pa.s, foaming height is 10 mm and no irritation found on human skin. The antibacterial activity determines by Disk Diffusion method.
F1 batch shows more activity against E. coli, Bacillus and it was inactive against Pseudomonas aeurogenosa and Staphylococcus aureus.
Keywords: Herbal V Wash, Hibiscus rosa sinensis, Antibacterial Activity, E. Coli, Bacillus, Tannins.
Publication
2026
Potential Cardioprotective effect of Scopoletin on Dox-triggered Cardiotoxic effect in Rodents
PROF. P.L. NIKAM
— ASSO.PROFESSOR
Doxorubicin is a chemotherapeutic drug commonly employed in cancer treatment., renowned for its efficacy in destroying cancer cells. However, it is also associated with cardiotoxicity, which leads to damage in heart muscle cells (cardiomyocytes).
A total of fifty-five adult rats were utilized and categorized divided into four separate groups for the study: To evaluate the overall health and potential cardiac impacts, we measured BW, heart weight, and Electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements. Serum levels of cardiac troponin-I were assessed to gauge heart muscle damage and cardiotoxicity. Additionally, serum malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were analyzed to determine lipid peroxidation, a sign of oxidative stress. Total serum antioxidant capacity (TAC) was also measured to assess the body's overall antioxidant defense. Furthermore, histopathological examination of heart tissue samples was conducted under a microscope to identify any structural or cellular damage resulting from the treatments. In the DOX group, notable alterations in ECG parameters were observed, signaling cardiac impairment. Additionally, there was a noteworthy rise in serum cardiac troponin-I level (P < 0.001), indicating damage to heart muscle. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, a marker of oxidative stress, also increased markedly (P < 0.001). In contrast, TAC showed a noteworthy decline (P < 0.001), suggesting diminished antioxidant defenses. Histopathological examination with haematoxylin and eosin staining revealed signs of cardiomyopathy, including structural abnormalities in the heart tissue. Furthermore, the apoptotic index, assessed through caspase-3 staining, was significantly higher (P < 0.001), reflecting increased cell death in the heart comparingwith the control group. Conversely, the animal group pre-treatment with scopoletin (SPT) exhibited noteworthy improvements. ECG parameters showed reduced signs of cardiac dysfunction, suggesting enhanced cardiac health. Levels of serum trponin (P < 0.001) and malondialdehyde (P < 0.001) were notably lower, indicating decreased heart muscle damage and oxidative stress. The TAC levels increased significantly (P < 0.001), reflecting improved antioxidant defenses. Histopathological analysis revealed better preservation of heart tissue structure with fewer abnormalities. Additionally, the apoptotic index was significantly lower (P
< 0.001), suggesting reduced cell death in cardiac tissue comparing to doxorubicin group.
Keywords: Doxorubicin, free radicals, cardiotoxicity, apoptosis, scopoletin
Publication
2026
Phytofabrication and Characterization of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Vitex negundo Seed Extract: An Ecofriendly Nanotechnological Approach
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
— Associate Professor
This study developed an eco-friendly method for synthesising zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using the aqueous seed extract of Vitex negundo Linn.
This study developed an eco-friendly method for synthesising zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using the aqueous seed extract of *Vitex negundo* Linn. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of compounds that helped reduce and stabilise the nanoparticles. Among five formulations, F2 showed the best stability and uniformity. UV-Vis, particle size, zeta potential, and FTIR analysis confirmed the formation of ZnO nanoparticles with an average size of 85.49 nm. The F2 formulation also showed significant antifungal activity against *Candida albicans*, indicating its potential for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.
Publication
2026
FORMULATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF POLYCAPROLACTONE-BASED BUCCAL PATCHES FOR SUSTAINED RELEASE OF IRBESARTAN
PROF. P.L. NIKAM
— ASST.PROFESSOR
This research focuses on the formulation and characterization of polycaprolactone-based buccal patches for sustained release of irbesartan.
The incorporation of polymers, specifically HPMC and polycaprolactone, met the criteria for developing a high-quality buccal film. In vitro dissolution data for formulation F3 batch showed a release rate of 91.49%, while in vitro drug release through cellophane membrane from F3 batch was 58.71%. The percent swelling index of irbesartan buccalpatches from the F3 formulation was found to be 59.61%. Preformulation studies of allexcipients were conducted using UV and FTIR techniques. Overall, this study presents promising results for the development of sustained-release buccal patches for irbesartan delivery.
Keywords: Polycaprolactone, Buccal Patches, Sustained Release, Irbesartan, Drug Release, Swelling Index.
Publication
2026
Development and Characterization of Nasal Mucoadhesive Microemulsion of Sumatriptan Succinate
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
— Associate Professor
The purpose of this study was to enhance the brain uptake of sumatriptan succinate (SS) in o/w microemulsion, which was suitable for intranasal delivery.
This study aimed to improve the brain delivery of sumatriptan succinate through an intranasal oil-in-water microemulsion. The formulation used isopropyl myristate as the oil, Tween 80 and Span 80 as surfactants, and n-butanol as the cosurfactant. The optimized formulation contained 5% oil, 25% water, and 70% surfactant–cosurfactant mixture. HPMC K4M was added as a mucoadhesive polymer to increase nasal residence time and prolong drug release. After administration, the formulation formed a gel inside the nasal cavity, which improved drug absorption and bioavailability. The results suggest that this mucoadhesive microemulsion can provide rapid and effective delivery of sumatriptan succinate for the emergency treatment of acute migraine attacks.
Publication
2026
A Review on Development of Transdermal Drug Delivery System
M.M. ROKADE
— HOD
Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS), also known as “patches,” are dosage forms designed to deliver a therapeutically effective amount of drug across a patient’s skin. In order to deliver therapeutic agents through the human skin for systemic effects, the comprehensive morphological, biophysical and physicochemical properties of the skin are to be considered.
A transdermal patch is a medicated adhesive patch that is placed on the skin to deliver a specific dose of medication through the skin and into the bloodstream. Often, this promotes healing to an injured area of the body. An advantage of a transdermal drug delivery route over other types of medication delivery such as oral, topical, intravenous, intramuscular, etc. is that the patch provides a controlled release of the medication into the patient, usually through either a porous membrane covering a reservoir of medication or through body heat melting thin layers of medication embedded in the adhesive. Transdermal drug delivery offers controlled release of the drug into the patient, it enables a steady blood level profile, resulting in reduced systemic side effects and, sometimes, improved efficacy over other dosage forms. The main objective of transdermal drug delivery system is to deliver drugs into systemic circulation through skin at predetermined rate with minimal inter and intrapatient variations.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
Publication
2026
Enhanced Dissolution Rate of Glipizide by a Liquisolid Technique
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
— ASSO.PROFESSOR
Most drugs cannot be given orally because of significant degradation in the GIT or first pass metabolism in the liver. Nasal route for the delivery of some drugs offers an alternative in the pharmaceutical industry.
The present review deals with the utility of the nasal route for the delivery of drugs to the brain as a microemulsion system in the treatment of a number of ailments like migraine, epilepsy, and hypertension. The nasal route could be important for drugs that are used in crisis treatments, such as for pain, and for centrally acting drugs where the pathway from nose to brain might provide a faster and more specific therapeutic effect. The purpose of the article is to provide an overview of the concept of microemulsion, selection of surfactant, co-surfactant, oils, formulation of microemulsion, phase diagram study, and evaluation of microemulsion. The review also focuses on the excipients available for formulation of microemulsions for nasal delivery and describes the investigations reported for the various classes of therapeutic agents. The interesting features of microemulsion such as spontaneity of formation, ease of manufacturing, high solubilization capacity and self-preserving properties make them the vehicle of choice for nasal delivery.
KEYWORDS: Microemulsion, nasal delivery, mucoadhesion, drug delivery, solubilization
Publication
2026
Enhanced Dissolution Rate of Glipizide by a Liquisolid Technique
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
— ASSO.PROFESSOR
This study aims to prepare immediate release glipizide liquisolid tablets using Avicel PH-102 and Aerosil 200 as the carrier and coating material respectively to increase dissolution rate of poorly soluble glipizide.
This study also aims to evaluate treated Gellan gum as disintegrant in the preparation of liquisolid tablets. The solubility of glipizide was increased by use of liquisolid technique. The glipizide liquisolid tablets were evaluated for characteristics like drug content, friability, hardness, disintegration time, thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) study and dissolution rates. The dissolution patterns of glipizide liquisolid tablets, carried out according to USP paddle method, and were compared with their commercial counterparts. The results obtained shows that all glipizide liquisolid tablets exhibits higher dissolution rates than those of marketed glipizide tablets. Dissolution rates increases with increasing concentration of liquid vehicles and maximum drug release achieved by formulations containing Polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) as a liquid vehicle. The results of XRD and thermal analysis did not show any changes in crystallinity of drug and interaction between glipizide and excipients during the formulation process.
KEYWORDS: Glipizide, liquisolid tablets, dissolution rate enhancement, non-volatile solvents
Publication
2026
Lipid–polymer conjugated nanocarriers of ferulic acid for obesity intervention via oxidative stress regulation
B pharmacy
— ASSO.PROFESSOR
This study developed and optimized chitosan-conjugated hybrid polymer–lipid nanocarriers to improve the oral bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of ferulic acid for obesity management.
The optimized formulation showed suitable particle size, high encapsulation efficiency, good stability, and sustained drug release over 24 hours.
In a high-fructose diet-induced obese rat model, the nanocarrier formulation significantly improved insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism by reducing insulin, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and oxidative stress while increasing HDL levels. These findings suggest that ferulic acid-loaded nanocarriers may serve as a promising oral treatment platform for obesity-related metabolic disorders.
Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy
Publication
2026
Emerging Horizons in Acne Therapy: A Comprehensive Review of Conventional and Novel Anti-Acne Drugs
DR. S.M. BHADANE
— ASSO.PROFESSOR
Acne vulgaris is a multicausal skin disorder influenced by excess sebum production, follicular hyper keratinization, Cutibacterium
acnes proliferation, and inflammation.
Until recently, standard treatments have remained the mainstay of therapy, which includes
topical retinoid, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, hormonal agents, and many of which have their use severely limited due to side
effects, antibiotic resistance, and lack of patient compliance. Recent advances include the utilization of novel drug delivery
systems such as liposomes, ethosomes, and nanoparticles that enhance drug penetration while minimizing systemic exposure.
Biologics, antimicrobial peptides, probiotics, and phytochemical-based formulations are newer, promising, targeted, and safer
alternatives. This review comprehensively discusses traditional and next-generation anti-acne agents, focusing on their mode of
action, therapeutic potential, and clinical efficacy, with emphasis on current challenges and future directions toward personalized,
sustainable, and patient-friendly acne management.
KEYWORDS: Acne vulgaris, novel drug delivery, antimicrobial peptides, nanotechnology, personalized therapy.
Publication
2026
Phytofabrication and Characterization of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Vitex negundo Seed Extract: An Ecofriendly Nanotechnological Approach
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
— Associate Professor
This study reports the eco-friendly synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using aqueous seed extract of Vitex negundo Linn.
The plant extract acted as a natural reducing and stabilising agent due to the presence of alkaloids, tannins, carbohydrates, and saponins.
Among five formulations, F2 showed the best stability and physicochemical properties. ZnO nanoparticle formation was confirmed through UV-Vis spectroscopy, particle-size analysis, zeta potential, and FTIR studies. The optimized formulation demonstrated significant antifungal activity against Candida albicans.
The findings suggest that green-synthesised ZnO nanoparticles from Vitex negundo seeds may have promising applications in pharmaceutical and biomedical fields.
Publication
2026
Therapeutic Potential of Resveratrol-Loaded Liposomal Nanoparticles in Attenuating Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats
DR. S.M. BHADANE
— ASSO.PROFESSOR
This study evaluated the neuroprotective potential of resveratrol-loaded liposomal nanoparticles (RSV-LNPs) against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats. The nanoparticles were prepared using the thin-film hydration method and showed good stability, uniform particle distribution, suitable particle size, and high encapsulation efficiency.
Cerebral injury was induced through middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by reperfusion. Treatment with RSV-LNPs significantly reduced infarct volume and improved neurological function compared with the untreated ischemia-reperfusion group.
The formulation also lowered malondialdehyde levels and improved antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase and catalase. Inflammatory markers such as TNF-α and IL-6 were also significantly reduced.
Histopathological examination showed decreased neuronal damage and improved brain tissue structure. Overall, RSV-LNPs demonstrated strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects.
The findings suggest that liposomal nanocarriers can enhance the therapeutic effectiveness of resveratrol and may offer a promising treatment approach for ischemic stroke.
International Journal of Zoological Investigations
Publication
2026
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Nanotechnology (IJPSN)
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
— Associate Professor
The International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Nanotechnology (IJPSN) is a Scopus-indexed and PCI-recommended international research journal dedicated to pharmaceutical sciences and nanotechnology.
Established in 2008, the journal provides a global platform for researchers, academicians, and pharmaceutical professionals to publish high-quality research, reviews, and scientific advancements.
IJPSN is published under the editorial leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Bikash Medhi, supported by an experienced editorial publishing team, an eminent Editorial Board, and an Editorial Advisory Panel comprising experts from India, the USA, and other countries worldwide.
The journal is published by Pharma Book Syndicate, a unit of BSP Books Pvt. Ltd.