FORMULATION DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF NIOSOMAL GEL OF COLLECTIVE ANTI-FUNGAL AGENTS

Abstract

Objectives: Tea tree oil (TTO) and Eucalyptus oil (EO) are essential oils derived from the leaves and terminal branches of Melaleuca alternifolia and Eucalyptus globulus. Both oils have narrative topical antifungal agents. Niosomal vesicles were chosen for Tea tree and EO dispersion in this investigation because of their ability to protect enclosed drugs, reduce drug dose amount, target drug delivery, increase residence time and penetration. Methods: TTO and EO containing niosomes were made using a modified thin-film hydration process and Carbopol 934 as a gelling agent to produce a smooth antifungal niosomal gel. Results: TTO and EO entrapment efficiency was found to be 84.89±0.19% and 86.86±0.57%, respectively, and percent cumulative drug diffusion of TTO and EO was found to be 84.21% and 85.22% in the prepared optimized batch [N9]. Transmission electron microscopy revealed vesicular, spherical particles in the nano range with a smooth surface. The optimum batch [N9] of niosomal gel was made with 1% w/w carbopol 934. TTO 84.9% and EO 86.89%, respectively, were found to have prolonged drug release in an in vitro release investigation utilizing the dialysis bag method. The G9 batch niosomal gel was found to be stable by performing an accelerated stability study for 3 months. Conclusion: It was concluded that the best formulation batch G9 shows better-sustained release, enhanced residence time, and stability.