Emulsions

Definition of Emulsions

• Emulsions in pharmaceutics is a heterogeneous system consisting of two immiscible liquids (often oil and water), where one liquid is dispersed in the other as small droplets.
• Emulsion is typically unstable and require stabilizing agents (emulsifiers) to maintain the dispersion.

Classification of Emulsions

1. Oil-in-Water (O/W) Emulsion:

   • Oil droplets are dispersed in a water phase.
   • Commonly used in oral, intravenous, or topical pharmaceutical formulations as they are more compatible with the body’s aqueous environment.

2. Water-in-Oil (W/O) Emulsion:

   • Water droplets are dispersed in an oil phase.
   • Often used in topical formulations like moisturizing creams or ointments to create a water-resistant barrier.

3. Multiple Emulsion:

   • These can be water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) or oil-in-water-in-oil (O/W/O)
   • Used in specialized drug delivery applications to control the release of active ingredients.

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