Enhanced Medicated Lacquer Formulation for Managing Psoriatic Nail Disease

Abstract

Nail psoriasis often requires prolonged treatment, with frequent relapses being common. Effective management typically involves extended therapy, as oral anti-psoriatic medications can pose a risk of liver toxicity as a notable side effect. Alternative treatments include monthly corticosteroid injections into the nail folds. Topical therapies, such as medicated nail lacquers, offer the advantage of targeted drug delivery directly to the affected area, reducing systemic exposure and minimizing potential adverse effects. However, a significant challenge is achieving effective drug penetration through the dense keratin structure of the nail plate. This review examines recent advancements in medicated nail lacquer formulations, focusing on strategies to enhance drug delivery across the nail. Key factors discussed include the molecular size, hydrophilicity, lipophilicity, and overall formulation properties that influence efficacy. Commonly used medications in these formulations include clobetasol, tacalcitol, tazarotene, urea, and calcipotriene. By emphasizing the critical role of formulation, this review highlights the effectiveness of medicated nail lacquers in optimizing drug delivery for psoriatic nail disease.

Keywords: Nail psoriasis, Medicated nail lacquers, Transungual drug delivery, Factors responsible for the transportation, NAPSI.