Formulation and Evaluation of Ketoconazole Gel for Topical Use

In recent years, due to globalization and industrialization there have been Unhygienic conditions in undeveloped countries. Pollution in developing and developed countries has resulted in a pathetic increase in the number of life-threatening infections. Due to these various reasons, there is an increase in various species of fungal infections. Ketoconazole is a potent antifungal drug, according to BCS, Ketoconazole is categorized under class-2, which has high permeability and low solubility. Thus, it suffers from a problem in formulation development with poor bioavailability and low aqueous solubility.

The objective of the present study was to formulate and evaluate ketoconazole gel for topical use. Methodology: The solubility study was carried out to identify and characterize the procured drug sample and excipients. A preliminary solubility study was performed. Eucalyptus oil, Poloxamer, Propylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Lecithin, isopropyl Myristate, castor oil and Paraffin oil are used for the formulation of a gel.

The procured drug sample was confirmed to be Ketoconazole and was in its pure form. The formulation was formulated using a surfactant and oils selected from the solubility studies of drug in various oil and surfactants. This study concludes that the pH of the formulation was found to be 6.6 – 7.8. and viscosity of the formulation was obtained at 3883 cP.

The present study demonstrated a systematic approach for the development of ketoconazole gel which can be very useful for the topical delivery of many emerging hydrophobic drugs with good therapeutic potential.