Formulation and Characterization of Ketoconazole Loaded Nanosponges in Hydrogel for Treating Topical Fungal Infections

The background behind the delivery of drugs topically is to render localized action on the skin. Topical drug delivery employing conventional formulations such as ointment, creams suffers with lower uptake of drug due to its hydrophobic nature eventually leads to ineffective treatment. To overcome these issues, topical delivery of β-cyclodextrin-based nanosponges has opted, that facilitates the controlled drug release over a period of time. Topical drug delivery is an intriguing and persuading access to treat skin related infections/diseases owing to their lower risk of reactions a the systemic level duly contrasted with oral or parenteral drug administration and high drug level can be accomplished at the site of ailment. β-Cyclodextrin nanosponges (NS) are composed of permeable nanostructure material comprising of hyper cross-linked β-cyclodextrin system, ensures enhancement in solubility, provides desirable controlled release wider range of drugs by forming inclusion complexes, which diminish the recurrence portion of drug and maintain a distance from systemic absorption. Ketoconazole, an antifungal agent classified as BCS II, used to treat fungal infections and candidiasis. The stumbling block in attaining the effective therapeutic application and efficacy of ketoconazole is due to its moderate lipid solubility (Log P 4.35).