Abstract

CURRENT TREND IN TOPICAL DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM: EMULGEL A REVIEW

Tarun Parashar* and Soniya

ABSTRACT

Topical drug delivery system can be defined as a direct effect of drug containing medication to the skin to get the effect of drug or to cure disorders. Major disadvantage of gel is the delivery of hydrophobic drug. This can be overcome by Emulgel. Emulgel are used as a recent topical delivery system containing dual release system i.e. gel and emulsion. Since hydrophobic drugs are not soluble in gel bases it causes problem during the release of drug. Emulgel formulation helps the hydrophobic drugs incorporation into the oil phase and then oily globules are dispersed in aqueous phase resulting in o/w emulsion which can be mixed into the gel base. Emulgel are used as better topical drug delivery systems over other systems because of many properties. The use of Emulgel can be found in analgesics, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-acne drugs and various cosmetic formulations. The major objective behind this formulation is the delivery of hydrophobic drugs to the systemic circulation via the skin. The Emulgel for dermatological use has several favourable properties Such as being thixotropic, greaseless, easily spreadable, easily removable, emollient, non-staining, water-soluble, greater shelf life, bio-friendly, clear and pleasant appearance. Various penetration enhancers can potentiate the effect. So this can be used as superior topical drug delivery systems over present conventional systems available in market.

Keywords: Emulgel, Hydrophobic drugs, Topical drug delivery, Penetration enhancer.