ABSTRACT
Transdermal drug delivery systems are a constant source of interest because of the benefits that they afford in overcoming many drawbacks associated with other modes of drug delivery (i.e. oral, intravenous). Topical gels are becoming more popular due to ease of application and better precutaneous absorption. Gels are semisolid formulations, which have an external solvent phase, may be hydrophobic or hydrophilic in nature, and are immobilized within the spaces of a three-dimensional network structure. Gel formulations provide better application property and stability in comparison to cream and ointments. Skin is one of the most extensive and readily accessible organs on human body for topical administration and is main route of topical drug delivery system. Topical gels are intended for skin application or to certain mucosal surfaces for local action or percutaneous penetration of medicament or for their emollient or protective action. Recent studies have reported other types of gels for dermal drug application, such as proniosomal gels, emulgels, bigels and aerogels. This review is concern with all detail information regarding novel approaches to topical gel formulation, advantages and classification of gel.