Development and Physicochemical Evaluation of Ceclofenac-Loaded Emulgel

Abstract

The emulgel formulation has emerged as one of the most efficient and effective strategies for the delivery of hydrophobic drugs. Emulgels represent a hybrid dosage form that combines the characteristics of both emulsions and gels. Owing to this dual property, they enhance the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs, thereby improving their bioavailability, while also offering a patient-friendly approach to topical drug delivery. In this study, aceclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) derived from diclofenac, was selected as the model drug. Being a BCS class II compound (low solubility and high permeability), aceclofenac is well-suited for formulation as an emulgel, where even smaller doses can achieve therapeutic efficacy in topical applications. Two different gelling agents, carbomer 934 and HPMC K4M, were used separately at a concentration of 1% w/w to prepare the emulgels. Linseed oil served as the penetration enhancer. The prepared formulations were evaluated for rheological properties, pH, and in vitro drug release profile. The findings revealed that the emulgel prepared with carbomer 934 exhibited a superior drug release profile compared to the formulation containing HPMC K4M. These results suggest that carbomer 934 is a more suitable gelling agent for the development of aceclofenac emulgel formulations, providing enhanced drug release and potentially better therapeutic outcomes.