Nanogel-based delivery of dequalinium chloride: A novel approach for antimicrobial and controlled drug release

Dequalinium chloride (DQC) is a potent antimicrobial agent; however, its therapeutic application is limited due to poor solubility, rapid degradation, and short half-life. In this study, we developed a nanogel-based delivery system to provide stability, bioavailability, and controlled release of DQC, subsequently improving antimicrobial impact. Carbopol 940 and PEG 6000 were used for the synthesis of the nanogel, which was characterized for physicochemical properties, drug entrapment, and release kinetics. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) confirmed the successful encapsulation and amorphous nature, whereas Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) validated improved thermal stability. The nanogel showed a high entrapment efficiency of 90%, and the drug was released sustained according to a non-Fickian diffusion mechanism with 86.23% cumulative release in 24 h. As per antimicrobial activity, it was observed that the developed formulation showed better inhibition against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus than free drug solutions. Thus, the findings indicate that the developed nanogel formulation can be considered a worthy advanced antimicrobial delivery system with controlled drug release.