FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ANTIFUNGAL GEL

Kshitij S. Varma*, Sapna Kiran Sonawane, Siddhi Sudhir Sonawane, Rushikesh Sanjay Sonawane, Bhushan Mahendra Shirsath, Vedant Valmik Sonawane, Shubham Sanjay Shirsath

Fungal infections of the skin and nails, caused by dermatophytes (e.g., Trichophyton) and yeasts (e.g., Candida), pose a significant health burden, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Traditional treatments with topical antifungal creams often suffer from limitations like poor drug penetration, prolonged treatment needs, and inconsistent patient adherence, driving the need for more effective options. This study explores a novel gel-based antifungal formulation designed to improve drug delivery, efficacy, and patient convenience while reducing side effects. The gel, containing active ingredients like clotrimazole or ketoconazole in a bioadhesive and biocompatible base, is optimized for sustained drug release directly at the infection site. Bioadhesive properties enhance drug retention and localized action, minimizing systemic absorption. The formulation, created using gelling agents like HPMC and chitosan, underwent extensive testing to ensure stability, appropriate viscosity, and controlled drug release. In vitro tests against Trichophyton rubrum and Candida albicans showed strong antifungal effects, outperforming conventional formulations. Stability and skin compatibility studies also indicated safe, effective use in topical applications. This gel-based formulation promises a superior alternative for treating fungal infections, with potential to improve therapeutic outcomes and patient quality of life. Future clinical trials are necessary to validate its effectiveness further.