Delivery of Amphotericin B for Effective Treatment of Candida Albicans Induced Dermal Mycosis in Rats via Emulgel System: Formulation and Evaluation

BACKGROUND: Amphotericin B (AmB) is among the gold standard antifungal agents used for the treatment of the wide range of fungal infections. However, the drug has various side- effects. Transdermal approach for the delivery of drug is one of the accepted and convenient modes of drug delivery. Aim: The current work was designed to formulate and to evaluate the AmB emulgel system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the preparation of AmB emulgel, Carbopol 930 was used as a gel in this study. The formulation was evaluated for viscosity, spreadability, drug content, drug release and in vitro and in vivo antifungal testing. RESULTS: AmB emulgel was found to penetrate skin effectively and without any irritation. Further, in vivo studies revealed effective therapeutic potential against Candida albicans induced dermal mycosis. Conclusions: The current work, for the first time, revealed effective delivery of AmB across the skin.