STUDYING THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT GELLING AGENT ON THE PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF METRONIDAZOLE AS TOPICAL EMULGEL

Abstract

Objective: Emulgels as topical dosage form recently gains an interest represent a combination of gels and emulsions in united form. Metronidazole is an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory drug, as the first topical therapy approved for rosacea; metronidazole has remained a cornerstone of rosacea management. Methods: Emulgel formulations of metronidazole benzoate were prepared using two types of gelling agents, Carbopol 940 and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, the influence of type and concentration of them on the release of metronidazole benzoate was investigated. The prepared formulations were evaluated on the basis of pH, spreadability, viscosity, drug content, in vitro release, and compatibility studies. Results: All the prepared emulgels showed acceptable physical properties concerning color, homogeneity, consistency, spreadability, and pH value. Conclusion: The best formulation (F4) prepared using Carbopol 940 as gelling agent showed the highest drug release through 5 h.