Review on topical gellified emulsion: Superior vehicle for hydrophobic drugs

Abstract

When gels and emulsions are used in combined form the dosage form are referred as emulgel. In recent years, there has been great interest in the use of novel polymers. Emulgel is an emulsion, either of the oil-in-water or water-in-oil type, which is gelled by mixing with a gelling agent. Emulgel shows dual release control system of the gel and emulsion. Many advantages of gels a major limitation is in the delivery of hydrophobic drugs. So to overcome this limitation an emulsion based approach is being used so that even a hydrophobic therapeutic moiety can enjoy the unique properties of gels. The emulgel for dermatological use has several favorable properties such as being thixotropic, greaseless, easily spreadable, easily removable, emollient, non-staining, water-soluble, longer shelf life, bio-friendly, transparent & pleasing appearance. The bioavailability of an emulgel can be enhanced by using permeation enhancers. The use of emulgel can be extended to analgesic, antifungal drugs & various cosmetic formulations.