Formulation and Characterization of Luliconazole Microsponge Gel for Diaper Dermatitis

Purpose

Many current drug delivery technologies are ineffective and require high concentrations of active drugs for effective therapy. Novel drug delivery systems (NDDS) are increasingly being investigated to achieve targeted and controlled drug release. This study uses a microsponge-loaded drug delivery system to overcome the problem associated with traditional therapy for diaper dermatitis. Therefore, we aimed to formulate and characterize luliconazole microsponge-loaded gel for anti-fungal activity.

Methods

Quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method was used for developing luliconazole microsponge. The characterization of drug-loaded microsponge was investigated. Optimization of formulation carried out through in vitro release studies and entrapment efficacy. The formulation of microsponge-loaded gel was carried out and evaluated using physicochemical studies. The effectiveness of optimized formulations was examined for anti-fungal activity against Candida albicans.

Results

The prepared microsponge was found to have a particle size between 20 and 50 µm, an entrapment efficiency of 53 ± 0.3–92.7 ± 0.1% and a drug release of 71.8 ± 0.2–88.5 ± 0.02%. The pH was in the range of 6.8–7.4, and the viscosity of the prepared formulation was 265.5 cPs. In vitro, the release of luliconazole microsponge-loaded gel showed that formulation F6 has the highest percentage (%) of cumulative drug release (CDR) compared to other formulations. The anti-fungal activity of the microsponge-loaded gel against Candida albicans showed a clear zone of inhibition in the F6 formulation.

Conclusion

Our study results demonstrate that the F6 formulation has the highest % of CDR and shows better anti-fungal activity. Therefore, luliconazole microsponge-loaded gel formulation can improve drug delivery in diaper rash caused by fungal infection.

Graphical Abstract