Formulation and Evaluation of Liposomal Gel Incorporated with Aloe vera Gel

Abstract

Fungal skin infections are among the most common dermatological disorders, often associated with discomfort, inflammation, itching, and reduced quality of life. Conventional topical antifungal formulations of clotrimazole are effective; however, limited skin penetration, poor retention at the application site, and frequent dosing requirements may reduce therapeutic efficacy. The present study aimed to develop and evaluate a clotrimazoleloaded liposomal gel incorporated with Aloe vera gel to enhance topical drug delivery and improve antifungal activity. Clotrimazole-loaded liposomes were prepared using the thin-film hydration method with varying concentrations of soya lecithin and cholesterol. Preformulation studies including organoleptic properties, solubility analysis, melting point determination, UV spectrophotometric analysis, and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were performed to confirm drug characteristics and compatibility with excipients. The viscosity of the formulations ranged from 6850 ± 45 cP to 8920 ± 70 cP. The spreadability values of all formulations were found between 5.80 ± 0.11 to 6.85 ± 0.12 g•cm/sec. The extrudability values ranged from 82.5 ± 1.2% to 93.5 ± 1.2%, indicating excellent ease of removal from the container. Formulation F9 exhibited maximum extrudability (93.5 ± 1.2%). The highest drug content was observed in F9 (99.05 ± 0.70%), which may be attributed to enhanced drug entrapment due to higher lipid concentration. The cumulative drug release after 12 hours was found to be in the range of 84.75 ± 1.60% to 93.20 ± 1.75%. Formulation F1 showed maximum drug release (93.20 ± 1.75%), whereas F9 showed controlled release (84.75 ± 1.60%) due to increased rigidity of the liposomal bilayer caused by higher cholesterol and lecithin concentration. The findings of the study suggest that Aloe vera-based clotrimazole liposomal gel can serve as an effective topical drug delivery system with improved skin retention, controlled drug release, and enhanced antifungal potential. This novel formulation approach may provide better therapeutic outcomes for the management of superficial fungal infections