P-079 - Comparative Sensory Analysis of Novel Topical Diclofenac Hydrogel with Conventional Diclofenac Gel

Abstract Title: Comparative Sensory Analysis of Novel Topical Diclofenac Hydrogel with Conventional Diclofenac Gel


Background: Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac are very commonly used to manage acute and/or chronic pain (specifically arthritis in the US). The emulgel form of topical diclofenac is suitable for enhancing topical drug delivery to the targeted site. However, rising consumer demands for a fast, effective as well as convenient topical product have led to the development of topical diclofenac in hydrogel form. Haltner‐Ukomadu et al., 2019 study reported a faster onset and a greater absorption rate of diclofenac hydrogel than diclofenac emulgel. However, It’s important to note that patient preference for a particular topical product vehicle is crucial in ensuring proper treatment adherence.

Purpose/Objectives: This open, uncontrolled, non-randomized sensory assessment study was conducted in the United Kingdom to compare the product (including sensorial) attributes, overall user experience and preference of attributes of two diclofenac-based topical formulations: novel diclofenac (2%) hydrogel and conventional diclofenac (2%) emulgel.


Methods: A total of 453 participants completed the survey. Participants aged 35-60 years with a history of using prescription and non-prescription pain relief gels/creams were included. The study consisted of two Central Location Test (CLT) sessions. In the first session, participants applied either diclofenac hydrogel or emulgel alternately to their lower forearms, followed by questions on product attributes and user experience. After a rest day, the participants evaluated the products against a range of assertions to determine which product was most suitable for substantiating each assertion. A rotated sequential monadic design was used to mitigate order effects. Attributes evaluated included ease of application, quickness to apply, cooling sensation, non-greasiness, modern feel, non-messiness, fast absorption, non-stickiness, fast drying, and residue left on skin. Overall product liking, purchase intent, perceived uniqueness and comparisons with usual pain relief products were measured to assess user experience. Subgroup analyses explored variations by gender and age.


Results: Participants rated the hydrogel significantly higher for ease of application (91% vs. 85%), quickness to apply (88% vs. 82%), cooling sensation (74% vs. 68%), and contributing to perceptions of rapid efficacy (68% vs. 62%) compared to emulgel. The hydrogel was also seen as more modern (63% vs. 54%) and less messy (66% vs. 54%). It was rated less greasy (64% vs. 55%), with fewer residues left on the skin (54% vs. 47%) and faster drying times (56% vs. 49%). The hydrogel was preferred for its appearance (45% vs. 31%) as well as texture (37% vs. 31%). These findings were consistent across age groups. Middle-aged participants (45-54 years) found the hydrogel more cooling. The hydrogel’s superior sensorial attributes led to significantly higher ratings in terms of product liking, purchase intent, and perceived uniqueness. Notably, 34% of participants preferred the hydrogel, compared to 27% for the emulgel initially. Additionally, 41% rated the hydrogel better than their usual pain relief product compared to 30% for the emulgel. The hydrogel was also more favored in appearance (45% vs. 31%), and texture (37% vs. 31%). Purchase intent was higher for the hydrogel (56%) versus the emulgel (46%), and it was perceived as more unique (48% vs. 36%). Gender and age group analyses revealed consistent preferences, with females particularly favoring the hydrogel for its ease of application, absorption, and non-greasiness.

Conclusions/Implications for future research and/or clinical care: Participants evaluated various sensorial attributes of diclofenac hydrogel and emulgel. The hydrogel outperformed the emulgel in ease of application, cooling sensation, non-greasiness, modern feel, non-messiness, absorption, fast drying, and leaving no residue. More participants favored the hydrogel for its appearance and texture. Purchase intent for the hydrogel was higher, demonstrating its superior sensorial qualities and user satisfaction compared to the emulgel.


References: Haltner‐Ukomadu E, Sacha M, Richter A, Hussein K. Hydrogel increases diclofenac skin permeation and absorption. Biopharmaceutics & drug disposition. 2019 Jul;40(7):217-24.

< García N, Guiró P, Galván J, Crutchley N, Praestegaard M, Iversen L, Torres T. Sensory properties analysis of a calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate cream vehicle formulated with an innovative PAD Technology for the treatment of plaque psoriasis on the skin and scalp. Drugs in Context. 2023;12.