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ISSN 2063-5346
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A Review On: Microemulgel as a Topical Drug Delivery System

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Tooba Nikhat1*, Sagar Kasar, Dr.A.B. Gangurde, Sayyed Shoaib, Pritam S. Deore, Pinjari Rafiq, Momin Abuzar, Kolapkar Jyoti, Neha Sunil.
» doi: 10.48047/ecb/2023.12.12.50

Abstract

Microemulgels have appeared as a hopeful topical drug delivery system, combining the advantages of microemulsions and hydrogels. This review aims to provide an overview of microemulgels as an efficient and versatile platform for delivering drugs through the skin. Microemulgels are thermodynamically stable, transparent, as well as isotropic systems composed of oil, water, surfactant, and co-surfactant, with the addition of a gelling agent. They exhibit unique properties such as improved drug solubility, enhanced permeation, controlled release, and increased stability. These characteristics make microemulgels proper for delivering a extensive assortment of therapeutic agents, together with hydrophobic as well as hydrophilic drugs, proteins, and peptides. The combination of microemulsions and hydrogels in microemulgels offers several advantages. Microemulsions provide high drug-loading capacity, rapid drug release, and improved skin penetration, while hydrogels offer viscosity, ease of application, and prolonged drug release. The integration of these two systems in a microemulgel provides a synergistic effect, resulting in enhanced drug delivery efficiency and therapeutic outcomes. Various techniques, including phase inversion temperature, spontaneous emulsification, and self-emulsification, have been employed for microemulgel formulation. Factors influencing their stability and performance, such as surfactant/co-surfactant selection, oil-to-water ratio, and gelling agent concentration, have been extensively investigated. Moreover, microemulgels offer flexibility in terms of administration routes, including topical, transdermal, and ocular applications. They can be tailored to achieve desired rheological properties, ensuring ease of application and patient compliance. In conclusion, microemulgels represent a promising approach for effective drug delivery through the skin. Their unique properties, versatility, and ability to encapsulate diverse therapeutic agents make them a valuable tool in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Further research is needed to explore their full potential, optimize formulations, and evaluate their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.

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