Formulation and Evaluation of Ketoconazole Loaded Ethosomal Gel for Antifungal Activity

Abstract

Aim: Formulation and evolution of ketoconazole loaded ethosomal gel for Antifungal Activity.

Objectives: To formulate Ketoconazole-loaded ethosomal vesicles with enhanced skin penetration properties.

Methods: Ketoconazole-loaded ethosomes were created by employing the thin film hydration technique, which involved dissolving soya lecithin, cholesterol, and ketoconazole in a blend of ethanol and methanol, after which the solvent is evaporated to form a thin layer of lipid. After that, this film was rehydrated with various concentrations of hydromethanolic solution. and subjected to sonication to yield ethosomal vesicles. For later evaluation, the improved ethosomes were combined with a Carbopol 934 gel base. Carbopol was hydrated for a full night, and a W/V = 1% The suspension of ethosomes was thoroughly blended with the gel. Methyl paraben was included as a preservative finally, triethanolamine was employed to reduce the pH down to a range of 6-7.4.

Results: The ethosomal gel containing ketoconazole demonstrated nanosized vesicles with high entrapment efficiency and satisfactory physicochemical characteristics. The formulation displayed prolonged medication release and enhanced skin penetration. Enhanced antifungal effectiveness was verified by a greater inhibition zone when compared to the traditional gel.

Conclusion: The research effectively created an ethosomal gel loaded with ketoconazole that features enhanced entrapment efficiency, prolonged drug release, and appropriate physicochemical characteristics. The optimized formulation exhibited better skin penetration and greater antifungal efficacy when contrasted with traditional gels. In summary, the ethosomal gel offers a promising and efficient topical treatment for fungal infections, contributing to better patient adherence.