Carbopol-olive oil-based bigel drug delivery system of doxycycline hyclate for the treatment of acne

Abstract

The microstructure of bigel confirmed the oil in water type emulsion formation. The average droplet size of formulations was found 15-50 µm, and a bell-shaped droplet distribution curve, rheological, or viscosity studies suggested that the consistency and stability of bigel decrease with high organogel concentration. Three formulations (F1, F2, and F3) of the different ratios of hydrogel:oleogel (60:40, 70:30, and 80:20) were prepared in which F1 was less stable compared to F2 and F3. The drug content of F2 and F3 was respectively 79.94 and 71.33%. Formulation F2 was found more effective as compared to F3 based on <i>in vitro</i> drug release studies. Bigel also showed better results during <i>in vivo</i> studies at the rabbit ear model, which reduce acne diameter up to 1.10 mm from 4.9 mm while gel reduced it up to 1.20 mm.