*Corresponding Author: Mayank Yadav, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Adarsh Vijendra Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shobhit University, Gangoh, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. Email: mayankmp@gmail.com
The study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a combination-loaded microsponge gel containing Clotrimazole and Ketoconazole for topical drug delivery. The objective is to enhance the therapeutic efficacy and minimize the side effects of these antifungal agents by developing a controlled release system. Various polymers were utilized to prepare the microsponges, including ethyl cellulose, Eudragit, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The microsponges were formulated using the quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method, optimizing parameters such as drug-to-polymer ratio, stirring speed, and solvent type. The resultant microsponges were characterized for particle size, surface morphology, drug loading efficiency, and encapsulation efficiency.
The formulated microsponges were incorporated into a gel base and evaluated for their physicochemical properties, including pH, viscosity, spreadability, and in vitro drug release. The stability of the microsponge gel was assessed under various storage conditions. Results indicated that the microsponge exhibited a spherical shape with a porous surface, appropriate particle size distribution, and high drug encapsulation efficiency. The gel formulation showed desirable rheological properties and a controlled release profile, with a sustained antifungal effect over an extended period.
The combination therapy of Clotrimazole and Ketoconazole in a microsponge gel provided a synergistic effect, enhancing antifungal activity and potentially reducing the frequency of application and adverse effects associated with conventional formulations. In conclusion, the study successfully developed a novel microsponge gel system for the topical delivery of Clotrimazole and Ketoconazole, demonstrating its potential as an effective treatment for fungal infections.
Keywords: Microsponge, polymer, skin, antifungal, ketoconazole, clotrimazole, in-vitro drug release, diffusion method.
How to cite this article: Sodiyal N, Yadav M, Singh R. Formulation and evaluation of clotrimazole and ketoconazole combination loaded microsponge gel using different polymers for topical drug delivery. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(7s): 232-235; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.7s.26
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None