ABSTRACT
Objective: The objective of the present study was to formulate flurbiprofen (FLB) emulgel, evaluation of the formulations and the selection of an optimized formulation through in vitro drug release and drug content studies. Flurbiprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) requiring frequent administration and its chronic intake can lead to systemic side effects like gastric irritation and GI bleeding. The development of a dermal drug delivery system can overcome these side effects. Methods: The emulgel formulations were produced using different combinations of oil and emulsifying agents. Carbopol 940 was used as a gelling agent. The prepared emulgels were evaluated for general appearance, pH, spreadability, extrudability, drug content, in vitro drug release, average globule size and viscosity. Results: Optimized formulation F7 showed a better in vitro drug release compared to the marketed gel preparation. The stability study for the optimized formulation was carried out at 25 °C/60 % RH for 3 mo and the emulgel was found to be stable concerning the physical appearance, pH and drug content. Conclusion: The study revolved around the formulation of emulgel containing Flurbiprofen for dermal delivery of the drug. Emulgel was formulated with the purpose to enhance the permeation of poorly water-soluble drug FLB. The study concluded that the optimized emulgel containing FLB exhibited better in vitro drug release profile compared to the marketed formulation.