FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ANTIOXIDANT HERBAL HAIR MASK CONTAINING FLAXSEED AND RICE WATER FOR TOPICAL APPLICATION Deepika A. Jagadale, Mangesh R. Bhalekar, Janhavi M. Deokute, Sharvari M. Molkar, Ananya T. Chowdhary Indian Drugs, 2026 This study focuses an development and evaluation of an antioxidant-rich herbal hair mask incorporating flaxseed and rice water. This mask was formulated from natural ingredients possessing conditioning, moisturizing and reparative characteristics without the use of parabens and sulphates. It demonstrated 72% DPPH radical scavenging activity, stable physical parameters, and promising performance in spreadability, foamability, and dirt dispersion tests. The findings show that the use of the hair mask as a cheap, environmentally superior substitute for the artificial hair products, and resulting in healthier, stronger hair, is achievable.
Biochemical investigations, in silico study and targeted delivery aspects of plant phytosterols: β-sitosterol Tejaswini V. Jagtap, Ashwini R. Madgulkar, Mangesh R. Bhalekar Inflammopharmacology, 2025 Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder marked by persistent joint inflammation, cartilage deterioration, and systemic effects. Conventional treatment regimens, including biologics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are often accompanied by significant drawbacks, underscoring the need for novel therapeutic strategies. Among plant-derived bioactives, phytosterols have gained attention for their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, with beta-Sitosterol (β-SS) standing out as a potent candidate for RA management. This review provides a comprehensive overview of β-sitosterol (β-SS), highlighting its biochemical properties, therapeutic significance, and mechanisms of action in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). β-SS modulates inflammatory signaling pathways by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factors and interleukins, while simultaneously attenuating oxidative stress. Through these actions, β-SS helps preserve cartilage integrity and supports bone health. Computational studies, including molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations, have validated its interaction with RA-associated targets, suggesting its potential role in disease modulation. Advances in nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems, including polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, and micelles, have shown promise in enhancing β-SS stability, controlled release and targeted accumulation in inflamed synovial tissues. Additionally, the review highlights regulatory considerations, technological innovations, and future research avenues to optimize β-SS-based RA interventions. With the integration of computational modeling and modern formulation strategies, β-SS presents a compelling natural alternative for improving RA therapeutics.
Hyaluronic acid–functionalised solid lipid nanoparticles for enhanced oral uptake and therapeutic efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis Mangesh R. Bhalekar, Ashwini R. Madgulkar, Yogesh R. Rewachandani, Vidhi Anil Dagade Journal of Microencapsulation, 2025 The aim of present work was to develop and optimise hyaluronic acid-functionalised, chloroquine-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (HA-CQL-SLNs) for CD44 receptor-mediated therapy of rheumatoid arthritis. The Chloroquine base was precipitated and characterised using UV spectroscopy, FTIR, and DSC. Solid lipid nanoparticles were prepared by melt emulsification followed by probe sonication and optimised using a Box-Behnken design. Particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency were evaluated. Ex vivo intestinal uptake was assessed using endocytosis inhibitors, while in vivo pharmacokinetic studies with cycloheximide pretreatment evaluated lymphatic transport. Therapeutic efficacy was studied in arthritic rats. The optimised HA-CQL-SLNs showed a particle size of 412.8 ± 0.71 nm, zeta potential of -9.6 ± 2.3 mV, and entrapment efficiency of 94.6 ± 0.49% (w/w). The lymphatic uptake involved clathrin- and caveolae-mediated endocytosis which was established by reduced systemic drug exposure in animals receiving Cycloheximide pre-treatment. HA-CQL-SLNs significantly reduced paw oedema and joint damage. Thus it can be concluded that HA-CQL-SLNs enhanced bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy, demonstrating potential as a targeted oral delivery system for rheumatoid arthritis.
Preparation and Evaluation of Amorphous Solid Dispersion of Etoricoxib, Employing A Fast Approach for Polymer Selection Bandenawaz M. Shaikh, Jitendra W. Gajbe, Ashwini R. Madgulkar, Mangesh R. Bhalekar, Minakshi B. Shinde Anti Inflammatory and Anti Allergy Agents in Medicinal Chemistry, 2025 Background: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to manage pain and inflammation but are associated with gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks, especially with COX-2 inhibitors. Topical delivery systems offer a safer alternative by minimizing systemic exposure; however, poor solubility and limited skin penetration remain challenges. Enhancing solubility through solid dispersion and incorporating it into a gel formulation may improve permeability and therapeutic effectiveness, addressing the need for safer and more efficient topical NSAID delivery. Introduction: This investigation aimed to enhance the solubility and dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble etoricoxib through the development of solid dispersions using the kneading method. Methods: A suitable carrier was selected from a pool of candidates based on polarised microscopy analysis. The influence of a solubilizer on amorphization was evaluated. Solid dispersions of Etoricoxib and its corresponding physical mixtures, incorporating or excluding the solubilizer, were prepared at varying drug-to-carrier ratios. Yield, drug content, saturation solubility, and in vitro dissolution profiles of these formulations were determined. Solid-state characterization using Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques was conducted. Results: FTIR spectra indicated the formation of intermolecular hydrogen bonds within the dispersions. XRD, SEM, and DSC analysis confirmed the amorphous transition of crystalline etoricoxib in all the prepared solid dispersions. In comparison to pure etoricoxib and its physical mixes, the produced solid dispersions showed significantly improved dissolution and solubility, Discussion: Solid dispersion technology effectively enhanced the solubility and dissolution of poorly water-soluble etoricoxib. Polarised microscopy also proved valuable for rapid excipient screening. However, the study was limited by the narrow range of solubilizers tested. While Poloxamer 407 was selected for its availability and untapped potential, broader screening of advanced solubilizers could offer improved outcomes. Conclusion: The solubility increased from 99.08 to 296.8 μg/ml and the dissolution rose from 69.32% to 98.07%. These findings suggest that the kneading method and Poloxamer successfully produced amorphous solid dispersions of etoricoxib with significantly enhanced solubility and dissolution properties, potentially improving its bioavailability.
Molecular docking, synthesis, and characterization of chitosan-graft-2-mercaptobenzoic acid derivative as potential drug carrier Tejinder Kaur Marwaha, Ashwini Madgulkar, Mangesh Bhalekar, Kalyani Asgaonkar Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2020 Abstract Chitosan is a hydrophilic polymer with prominent mucoadhesive properties. However, it forms weak hydrogen bonds with mucin thus limiting its mucoadhesion and exhibit reduced bioavailability due to its short retention time in the body. The aim of the present study was to synthesize and characterize novel thiolated chitosan with improved functional property. A unique approach of using molecular docking to select ligand to chemically modify chitosan has been employed in the present research. A set of ligands were screened virtually using docking analysis and 2‐mercapto benzoic acid showed the lowest glide score of −4.31 Kcal/Mol thus displayed better binding interaction with chitosan. Based on the docking results, the best‐fit ligand was selected for wet lab synthesis. 2‐Mercapto benzoic acid was covalently attached to chitosan via formation of an amide bond and the reaction was mediated by carbodiimide and N ‐hydroxysuccinimide. The synthesized polymer was in turn evaluated for zeta potential, Fourier transformed infrared, differential scanning calorimetry, molecular weight that confirmed conjugation of chitosan with the thiol ligand. The prepared thiomer was further subjected to mucoadhesion studies and displayed better mucoadhesion properties as compared to unmodified chitosan. Thus, the potential of the novel thiomer can be further explored as an excipient for drug delivery system with an emphasis on mucoadhesion.
Self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) of curcumin attenuates depression in olfactory bulbectomized rats Manoj Aswar, Mangesh Bhalekar, Akshata Trimukhe, Urmila Aswar Heliyon, 2020 BACKGROUND: were formulated in the present study. METHODS: Depression was induced by bilateral olfactory bulbectomy and the animals were randomized into 8 groups as normal, control [(vehicle 10 ml/kg, p.o., (per oral)], pure curcumin (10, 20, 40 mg/kg, p.o.), and curcumin SMEDDS (10, 20, 40 mg/kg, p.o). After 14 days of respective treatment, behavioral parameters such as open field test (OFT), ambulation counts and passive avoidance response (PAR) were evaluated. At the end of experiments, blood was withdrawn from r.o.p (retro orbital plexus) for serum cortisol estimation. RESULTS: In OFT, increased central area frequency, peripheral area frequency, central area duration and decreased rearing and grooming were recorded with an increased ambulation counts. In PAR, significant reduction in number of trials and step down from platform was observed in the animals treated with test drug. Serum cortisol level was also found to be decreased in the test groups. CONCLUSION: Behavioral and biochemical estimations in the present study revealed the improved brain permeability and further increase in biological activity of curcumin SMEDDS.
Design and development of mucoadhesive gastroretentive tablets using novel derivatives of Xyloglucan International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 2015
Design and optimization of sustained release matrix tablet of opipramol HCL by using quality by design approach Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research, 2014
Pharmacokinetic study of dry powder inhaler formulations of antiasthmatic drugs International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 2013
Sustained release of Antiasthatic drugs using biopolymers International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 2013
Preparation and evaluation of carvedilol microsphere by spray drying technique: Effect of process parameters on formulation International Journal of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, 2013
Developed and validated reverse phase HPLC method for the determination of febuxostat in bulk and formulations International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2012
Development and evaluation of multiparticulate colon targeted drug delivery system by combine approach of pH and bacteria International Journal of Pharmtech Research, 2011
Design, development and in vitro-in vivo study of colon specific fast disintegrating tablet based on time dependent approach Latin American Journal of Pharmacy, 2011
Formulation and in-vitro evaluation of repaglinide microspheres prepared by spray drying technique Latin American Journal of Pharmacy, 2011
Gastroretentive drug delivery system of captopril and hydrochlorothiazide bilayer tablet: Formulation, optimization and in vivo evaluation Latin American Journal of Pharmacy, 2011
Bioavailability assessment of simvastatin loaded solid lipid nanoparticles after oral administration Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2011
Gastroretentive drug delivery system of hydrochlorothiazide: Formulation, optimization and in vivo evaluation Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2011
Design and development of pH sensitive budesonide-chitosan mucoadhesive beads for ileo-ceacal targeting Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2011
Evaluation of oral fast disintegrating tablet of taste masked famotidine in rat Latin American Journal of Pharmacy, 2010
Ileo-cecal targeting mucoadhesive Budesonide tablet Latin American Journal of Pharmacy, 2010
Preparation and characterization of light sensitive Ofloxacin complexes under accelerated condition International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 2010
In vitro in vivo comparison of two pH sensitive Eudragit polymers for colon specific drug delivery Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 2009
