Title:Organogels: “GelVolution” in Topical Drug Delivery - Present and Beyond
Volume: 30
Issue: 7
Author(s): Ajinkya Nitin Nikam, Amrita Roy, Ruchira Raychaudhuri, Prerana D. Navti, Soji Soman, Sanjay Kulkarni, Krishnaraj Somayaji Shirur, Abhijeet Pandey and Srinivas Mutalik*
Affiliation:
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal
576104, Karnataka State, India
Keywords:
Organogels, lecithin organogels, topical drug delivery, skin permeation, dermatological treatments, drug solubility.
Abstract: Topical drug delivery holds immense significance in dermatological treatments due to its non-invasive
nature and direct application to the target site. Organogels, a promising class of topical drug delivery systems,
have acquired substantial attention for enhancing drug delivery efficiency. This review article aims to explore
the advantages of organogels, including enhanced drug solubility, controlled release, improved skin penetration,
non-greasy formulations, and ease of application. The mechanism of organogel permeation into the
skin is discussed, along with formulation strategies, which encompass the selection of gelling agents, cogelling
agents, and additives while considering the influence of temperature and pH on gel formation. Various
types of organogelators and organogels and their properties, such as viscoelasticity, non-birefringence, thermal
stability, and optical clarity, are presented. Moreover, the biomedical applications of organogels in targeting
skin cancer, anti-inflammatory drug delivery, and antifungal drug delivery are discussed. Characterization parameters,
biocompatibility, safety considerations, and future directions in optimizing skin permeation, ensuring
long-term stability, addressing regulatory challenges, and exploring potential combination therapies are
thoroughly examined. Overall, this review highlights the immense potential of organogels in redefining topical
drug delivery and their significant impact on the field of dermatological treatments, thus paving the way for
exciting prospects in the domain.