Excipients are inactive ingredients added to enhance the physical properties, stability, and patient acceptability of semisolid dosage forms. Common types include: Bases: Provide structure and consistency. They can be lipophilic (e.g., petrolatum, lanolin) or hydrophilic (e.g., polyethylene glycols). Gelling Agents: Form the gel structure in semisolids. Examples include carbomers, hydroxyethyl cellulose, and xanthan gum. Emulsifying … Read more

Definition Gels are semi-solid topical preparations consisting of a liquid phase dispersed in a gelling agent, forming a three-dimensional network. They are typically transparent, non-greasy, easily spreadable, and provide a cooling and soothing effect. Gels are widely used in dermatology, cosmetics, and medical applications. Preparation Methods Gels are prepared depending on their type: Hydrogels Water-based … Read more

Definition Creams are semi-solid topical preparations made from an emulsion of oil and water. They are less greasy than ointments and are easily absorbed, providing a balance between hydration and occlusion. Creams are widely used in skin care and medical treatments. Preparation Methods Creams are typically prepared as either oil-in-water (O/W) or water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions: … Read more

Definition Pastes are semi-solid topical preparations containing a high proportion of solid substances dispersed in a base. They are thicker and stiffer than ointments, allowing them to adhere to the skin for extended periods. Pastes are used to protect, soothe, and provide localized effects. Preparation Methods Levigation Solid ingredients are ground into fine powder and … Read more

Ointments are semi-solid topical preparations used to protect, soothe, or treat the skin or mucous membranes. They are typically composed of a greasy base that helps retain moisture and may contain active ingredients for various therapeutic purposes. Ointments are widely used in dermatology, wound care, and other medical applications. Preparation Methods Fusion Ingredients are melted … Read more

Several factors influence the rate and extent of drug penetration through the skin, which can be broadly classified into physiological factors, formulation factors, and physicochemical properties of the drug. 1. Physiological Factors Stratum Corneum Thickness: The stratum corneum is the primary barrier to drug penetration. Areas with thinner stratum corneum (e.g., the face, scalp) show … Read more

The skin has several layers, but drug penetration primarily occurs across the epidermis, particularly through the stratum corneum. There are three primary pathways for dermal penetration: 1. Transcellular (Trans-epidermal) Route Drugs pass directly through the keratinocytes (cells) of the stratum corneum. Challenges: This route requires the drug to partition into and out of the lipid-rich … Read more

Definition of Semisolid Dosage Forms Semisolid Dosage Forms are pharmaceutical preparations intended for external application to the skin or mucous membranes, having a consistency between solid and liquid. They are used for both local and systemic effects. These forms provide a medium for the drug to be delivered to the site of action, and their … Read more