Novel Microgel of Tretinoin: A Sustained Release Anti-Acne Topical Formulation

Abstract

Objective: The study was aimed to formulate and evaluate sustained release Tretinoin microgel. Tretinoin has been an efficacious treatment for acne vulgaris as a topical agent.

Method: Tretinoin microgel was formulated by dispersion method in which Carbopol 934P was used as polymer with different concentrations, Acrylate copolymer along with acetone acts as a solvent. Other adjuvants used for the formulations were glycerin (12%), Propylene glycol (1.8%), Polypropylene glycol-20 Methyl Glucose Ether Diesterate (5.25%), Butyl Hydroxy Toluene (0.01%) was incorporated to improve and maintain the physiochemical properties of the gel.

Result: The pH of the formulations was found to be in the range of 5.96-6.63 with the percentage drug content 95.45-101.27%. The swelling index was found within 81-95% and in vitro drug release was found to be 42.48-86.07% in 12 h. The encapsulation efficiency was found to be increased with increase in Carbopol 934P. Decrease rate of release was observed with increased concentration of Carbopol 934P. Results shows that the formulation F3 (Carbopol 934P 0.7%w/w) was the best with pH 6.3, drug content 99.54%, swelling index 89% and in vitro drug release 80.01% in 12 h.

Conclusion: Based on the findings, Tretinoin microgel shows a potential for effective drug delivery with good stability and release profile. Thus, the data obtained in the study suggested that Tretinoin can be prepared as microgel for sustained release formulation.