Emulgels: Application Potential in Drug Delivery
Emulgels have been extensively employed as emerging drug delivery systems for the administration of lipophilic or hydrophobic drugs, particularly as a boon for dermal health and cosmetic science. Emulgels are considered as emulsions of either oil–in-water (O/W) or water-in-oil (W/O) type in which the gels are incorporated. The emulgels are not only increasing the stability of entrapped bioactive, but are also controlling its release. Permeation enhancers such as isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) facilitate the percutaneous absorption of drug. The comprehensive investigation of rheological behaviour and release characteristics of emulgels are significant aspects for successful design and development of the emulgels. In this chapter, the key parameters related to preparation, characterization and evaluation of emulgels are discussed. Moreover, their applications in drug delivery are also elaborated.