Retinoid-based drugs, while effective, are associated with systemic toxicity. Topical alternatives offer a safer option, and tazarotene, a third-generation synthetic retinoid, holds promise. This study investigates tazarotene’s transdermal delivery potential, focusing on its application for joint-related conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate the suitability of tazarotene as a candidate for transdermal delivery into joints. In vitro permeation studies, using porcine skin, assessed tazarotene’s transdermal drug delivery from solution and gel formulations. A tape-stripping analysis determined stratum corneum retention and a pilot study using porcine joints assessed tazarotene’s ability to reach articular cartilage. Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with a mass detector method was used to quantify tazarotene and tazarotenic acid permeation. The results validate that tazarotene can permeate porcine skin and accumulate in articular cartilage in detectable amounts. The detection of tazarotene and tazarotenic acid in both the in vitro permeation studies and the pilot study on porcine joints validate the drug’s potential therapeutic use for hand osteoarthritis. This study lays the groundwork for future research, contributing insights into tazarotene’s potential for transdermal drug delivery and guiding further exploration in topical retinoid applications.
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