Abstract

EMULGEL: A NEW APPROACH FOR ENHANCED TOPICAL DRUG DELIVERY

Jitendra N. Baviskar, Yash G. Chaudhari, Sameer H. Varade, Anushka R. Borse, Vishakha K. Saudagar, Kuldip R. Patil* and Dr. Umesh A. Mahajan

ABSTRACT

Emulgel is an innovative technology in the field of Novel Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS) designed for topical drug transport. It features a dual controlled release mechanism, combining the properties of both emulsions and gels. Emulgel is utilized for treating various conditions, including muscle pain, headaches, acne, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Emulgel is a transparent gel commonly used in both pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. It addresses the challenges typically associated with traditional gels and emulsions. Specifically, gels tend to release drugs more quickly compared to ointments, creams, or lotions. However, a significant limitation of gels is their difficulty in delivering hydrophobic drugs through the skin. To overcome this limitation, an emulsion-based approach is employed, allowing even hydrophobic therapeutic agents to harness the uniqueproperties of gels. Emulgel is formulated using different polymers that serve as both emulsifying and thickening agents. The gelling properties of these polymers help create stable emulsions by reducing interfacial and surface tension while simultaneously increasing the viscosity of the aqueous phase. Emulgels have significant advantages over both novel vesicular systems and conventional systems in various aspects. The emulgel offers several favorable properties for dermatological use, including being greaseless, thixotropic, easily spreadable, emollient, easily removable, non-staining, water-soluble, having a longer shelf life, being transparent, bio-friendly, and having a pleasing appearance.

Keywords: Emulgel, Emulsion based gel, Hydrophobic drugs. Topical drug delivery system, növel drug delivery.