Ethosome as a potential transdermal drug delivery system

Ethosomes are elastic nanovesicles with phospholipid bases that are noninvasive delivery vehicles and have a high ethanol concentration (20–45%). As transdermal drug delivery confers poor penetration, the major obstacle is the low diffusion rate of drugs across the stratum corneum. The sophisticated ethosomal delivery systems enable drugs to reach the deep skin layers and/or the systemic circulation. The development of these new carriers involves the employment of several preparatory processes. Ethosomal dispersions are added to gels, patches, and creams for ease of use and stability. Ethanol is known as an efficient permeation enhancer and has been added in the vesicular systems to prepare elastic nanovesicles. It has the potential to interact with the polar head group region of lipid molecules, lowering the melting point of the stratum corneum lipid and raising lipid fluidity and cell membrane permeability as a result. Ethosomes' special structure allows them to enclose and transmit through the skin highly lipophilic substances like propranolol and trihexyphenidil as well as cationic medicines like testosterone and minoxidil. This article provides a detailed review of the ethosomal structure, mechanism of penetration along with various methods of preparation. Also, the article focuses on the applications of ethosomal carriers and opportunities for the research and future development of novel improved therapies.