Formulation, Development of Organogel Containing Dexamethasone and Diclofenac for the Treatment of Inflammation

Abstract

The present study aimed to develop and evaluate an organogel formulation containing dexamethasone and diclofenac for topical drug delivery to enhance anti-inflammatory activity and improve patient compliance. Organogels were prepared using different polymers such as Carbopol 934, HPMC, and Tween 80 in varying concentrations. A total of nine formulations (F1–F9) were developed and evaluated for physicochemical parameters including pH, viscosity, spreadability, gel strength, drug content uniformity, and in vitro drug release. Pre-formulation studies confirmed the purity and compatibility of drugs using FTIR, UV spectroscopy, and melting point determination. The pH of all formulations was found within the acceptable range (6.1–6.7), indicating suitability for topical application. Viscosity and spreadability results showed that formulations exhibited good consistency and ease of application. Drug content uniformity ranged from 97.5% to 101%, confirming uniform distribution.

In vitro drug release studies revealed that formulation F7 showed the highest drug release (98.7% at 8 hours). Drug release kinetics followed the Higuchi model, indicating diffusion-controlled release. Thus, the developed organogel formulation can be considered a promising topical drug delivery system for effective management of inflammation.

Keywords: Organogel, Dexamethasone, Diclofenac, Topical drug delivery, Drug release kinetics.