Optimization of Metronidazole Emulgel

Abstract EN

The purpose of the present study was to develop and optimize the emulgel system for MTZ (Metronidazole), a poorly water soluble drug.

The pseudoternary phase diagrams were developed for various microemulsion formulations composed of Capmul 908 P, Acconon MC8-2, and propylene glycol.

The emulgel was optimized using a three-factor, two-level factorial design, the independent variables selected were Capmul 908 P, and surfactant mixture (Acconon MC8-2 and gelling agent), and the dependent variables (responses) were a cumulative amount of drug permeated across the dialysis membrane in 24 h (Y1) and spreadability (Y2).

Mathematical equations and response surface plots were used to relate the dependent and independent variables.

The regression equations were generated for responses Y1 and Y2.

The statistical validity of the polynomials was established, and optimized formulation factors were selected.

Validation of the optimization study with 3 confirmatory runs indicated a high degree of prognostic ability of response surface methodology.

Emulgel system of MTZ was developed and optimized using 23 factorial design and could provide an effective treatment against topical infections.