Abstract: A novel topical formulation for delivery of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is characterized by enhanced transdermal absorption and efficacy. A two phase liquid composition has aqueous and oil phases, the oil phase having a relatively high concentration of the NSAID to enhance transdermal absorption and efficacy when incorporated into the topical anti-inflammatory formulation. The two phase liquid composition preferably contains, in addition to an NSAID, at least one melting point depressing agent. A preferred topical anti-inflammatory composition includes S(+)-ibuprofen, thymol, and ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol.

Abstract: A novel topical anesthetic preparation is characterized by improved transdermal absorption and efficacy. In a preferred embodiment, the topical preparation contains at least one local anesthetic agent and at least two melting point depressing agents. Also provided is a two-phase liquid composition that contains aqueous and oil phases, the oil phase having a relatively high concentration of a local anesthetic agent to enhance transdermal absorption and efficacy when incorporated into a topical anesthetic preparation. A preferred topical anesthetic preparation includes lidocaine or tetracaine, thymol or menthol, and ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. The preparation is expected to be safe and effective in obtaining transdermal anesthesia on intact skin and mucous membrane of adults, children, infants and newborns.