Abstract

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ECONAZOLE USING TRANSFERSOMAL GEL

Mohd Zubair Ansari*, Dr. J. P. Rai, Pradeep Kumar Yadav and Dr. A. K. Singhai

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Abstract

The present study aimed to develop and evaluate a transfersomal gel formulation for the enhanced topical delivery of Econazole, an antifungal agent. Transfersomes, vesicular carriers composed of phospholipids, were employed to improve the drug's skin permeation and therapeutic efficacy. The transfersomal gel was characterized for its particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and morphology using dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, the rheological properties of the gel were examined to assess its suitability for topical application. The in vitro drug release profile was studied using a Franz diffusion cell setup through synthetic cellulose membrane and excised rat skin. The results indicated that the transfersomal gel exhibited a significantly smaller particle size (less than 200 nm), high entrapment efficiency (>80%), and stable zeta potential, indicating the successful formation of transfersomes. The rheological assessment showed a pseudoplastic flow behavior, ideal for topical application, and sustained drug release was achieved over the studied period. In conclusion, the developed transfersomal gel formulation offers a promising platform for the efficient topical delivery of Econazole. Further investigations, including in vivo studies, would be warranted to assess its full potential for clinical application.

Keywords: Novel Drug Delivery System, transfersomal gel, antifungal, Econazole.