Formulation and Evaluation of ACNE Gel using Metronidazole and Doxycycline

Abstract

This research study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of an ACNE gel using Metronidazole (1%) and Doxycycline (0.5%) as active ingredients. Three types of polymers, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC), Carbopol 940, and Carbopol 934 were used for gel formation. The formulated gels were evaluated for their physical characteristics, in vitro drug release, and drug-polymer compatibility. The calibration curves for both Metronidazole and Doxycycline displayed strong linearity within the concentration range of 5 to 25 µg/mL, facilitating accurate drug quantification. The gel formulations exhibited pH values of 6.0 (HPMC), 5.8 (Carbopol 940), and 5.7 (Carbopol 934), which are within the skin's natural pH range. The mean viscosity values were recorded as 205 cP (HPMC), 220 cP (Carbopol 940), and 231 cP (Carbopol 934). Spreadability and extrudability tests also yielded favorable results, suggesting ease of application. The in vitro drug release study showed a time-dependent increase in drug release, with the highest cumulative release observed from the HPMC formulation (90% at 8 hours), followed by Carbopol 940 (80% at 8 hours), and Carbopol 934 (64% at 8 hours). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed no significant interaction between the drugs and the polymers, indicating their compatibility. This study offers a promising approach to the development of effective ACNE gel formulations with Metronidazole and Doxycycline, while emphasizing the influence of the type of polymer on the drug release profile.