Permeation of naproxen from saturated solutions and commercial formulations through synthetic membranes

The release of naproxen through synthetic membranes, mounted in modified Franz-type diffusion cells, was evaluated, either from saturated solutions or from commercially available topical formulations containing 10% naproxen. The results obtained showed that the porous type synthetic membranes chosen (cellulose acetate and polyethersulphone) can be used for assessing product performance in quality control procedures. The formulations interacted with the solid membranes (silicone and EVA) to change their diffusional characteristics. However, transfer in the membrane, and not the formulation was rate controlling. These membranes could not therefore be used in assessing product release performance for quality control.