Development of Nanoemulsion-based Hydrogel Containing Andrographolide: Physical Properties and Stability Evaluation

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Formulation Development

Background:

• Andrographolide possesses diverse pharmacological activities suitable for topical or oral administration.
• Nanoemulsions enhance drug solubility and stability but have limitations for topical applications.
• Hydrogels can improve nanoemulsion viscosity, prolonging drug residence time for topical delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop andrographolide nanoemulsion-based hydrogel for enhanced topical application.
• To optimize the formulation for improved physicochemical properties and stability.

Main Methods:

• Nanoemulsions were prepared using Capryol 90, Kolliphor RH 40, and propylene glycol.
• D-optimal mixture design was utilized to determine the optimal nanoemulsion formulation.
• Nanoemulsions were incorporated into a hydrogel base containing Carbopol, propylene glycol, oleic acid, triethanolamine, and parabens.

Main Results:

• The optimized nanoemulsion-based hydrogel contained 34.65% Carbopol, 1.35% triethanolamine, and 9% propylene glycol.
• The final formulation exhibited a pH of 6.50 ± 0.02 and a viscosity of 2492.33 ± 36.91 cP.
• The hydrogel presented a stable milky white color and smooth, homogeneous texture after 8 weeks of storage.

Conclusions:

• Andrographolide can be successfully formulated into an acceptable nanoemulsion-based hydrogel for topical application.
• The developed hydrogel shows potential for effective topical drug delivery.