Abstract

C. S. Karthik*, D. Shripathy and A. R. Shabaraya

ABSTRACT

Gels offer numerous advantages in topical drug delivery, but a significant limitationis their effectiveness in delivering hydrophobic drugs. To address this challenge, anemulsion-based approach has been adopted to harness the unique properties of gelseven for hydrophobic therapeutic agents. The combined use of gels and emulsionsresults in a dosage form known as an emulgel. In recent years, there has been anotable focus on the utilization of novel polymers in this field. Dermatologicalpharmacology benefits from the direct accessibility of the skin as a target organ fordiagnosis and treatment. However, the skin's structure, with hydrophilic cornifiedcells and hydrophobic intercellular material, creates a barrier to both hydrophilicand hydrophobic substances. Transparent gels, within the broader category ofsemisolid preparations, have gained popularity in both cosmetics andpharmaceutical formulations. Polymers play a crucial role in emulgels, functioningas emulsifiers and thickeners. Their gelling capacity enables the formulation ofstable emulsions and creams by reducing surface and interfacial tension whileincreasing the viscosity of the aqueous phase. The introduction of a gelling agent inthe water phase transforms a classic emulsion into an emulgel. Emulgels exhibitsignificant advantages over both novel vesicular systems and conventional systems.The addition of permeation enhancers further enhances their efficacy. Therefore,emulgels emerge as superior topical drug delivery systems compared to existingmethods. Their applicability can be extended to anti-inflammatory drugs,showcasing the versatility and potential of emulgels in pharmaceutical and cosmeticformulations.