A Review on nano-emulsion based gel formulations: emulgel, technology and recent advances

Abstract

Dermatological products are being used for treating skin infections and pain  /inflammation related disease from ancient times. The topical drug delivery  provides many advantages over the other routes of drug administration. Apart from  conventional dosage forms like creams, powders, lotions, gels, ointments,  researchers are exploring new modifications in the dosage form for improved drug  penetrations and enhanced pharmacodynamic activity of poorly absorbed drugs  from the skin. Existing topical formulations are associated with the problems like  stability, stickiness, irritation, lower spreadability, limited drug permeability and  absorption. Formulation of Nano-emulsion based gels (Emulgel) is proved to be  prominent approach for overcoming the barriers associated with the conventional  dosage forms. Emulgels are prepared by screening oils, surfactant and co-surfactant  on the basis of drug solubility. Nano-Emulsion is prepared using suitable techniques  and then embedded into the gel matrix for skin application. Drug present in the oil  portion in the micelles form (less than 500nm globule size) provides more area for  absorption thereby more penetration and therapeutic activity. Emulgel processes  desirable properties like greaseless, spreadability, emollient, non-staining, good  consistency and improved organoleptic characteristics. Permeations enhancers are  also explored for enhancing the penetration of drug incorporated in the Emulgel.