Conventional vaginal dosage forms of antifungal drugs often show poor therapeutic efficacy due to rapid leakage, dilution, and short residence time at the site of application. To overcome these limitations, in situ gelling drug delivery systems have gained significant attention, as they transform from liquid to gel under physiological conditions, thereby enhancing drug retention and sustained release. The present study was aimed at the formulation and evaluation of an in situ gelling system of isoconazole nitrate using various polymers. Isoconazole nitrate, a broad-spectrum antifungal agent, was selected for the treatment of vaginal fungal infections. Sodium alginate was used as an ion-activated gelling agent, while HPMC E50 LV and other viscosity-enhancing polymers were incorporated to optimize gel strength and drug release characteristics. The prepared formulations were evaluated for clarity, pH, viscosity, gelation capacity, drug content, in vitro drug release, and stability studies. The optimized formulation exhibited suitable viscosity, rapid gelation in the presence of simulated vaginal fluid, and sustained drug release for up to 8 hours. The formulations were found to be stable, non-irritant, and effective in providing prolonged antifungal activity. Thus, the developed isoconazole nitrate in situ gelling system using various polymers offers a promising alternative to conventional vaginal formulations with improved residence time, enhanced bioavailability, and sustained drug release.
Shaik Reshma Kausar*, A. Dhana Lakshmi, A. Akhila, A. Mehabooba, B. Hymavathi, B. Sirisha (Sun,) studied this question.