Semi-Solid Dosage Form Excipients A Novel Approach

Abstract

             Semi-solid dosage forms such as ointments, creams, gels, and pastes are commonly employed in pharmaceutical practices to facilitate topical or transdermal administration of pharmaceutical agents. The semi-solid dosage forms allow for the topical application of a pharmaceutical agent to a specific area of interest, which then leads to localized therapeutic effects without the need for systemic absorption or first-pass metabolism. The semi-solid dosage forms are therefore widely used in dermatological therapy or cosmetic formulations.

           The effectiveness or stability of semi-solid dosage forms is a function of various excipients added to the formulation. The excipients play a crucial role in enhancing various properties of semi-solid dosage forms, including solubilizing properties, physicochemical stability, rheological properties, release characteristics, or antimicrobial protection.

         The review article under consideration discusses the importance of excipients used in the formulation of semi-solid dosage forms of drugs. Various excipients like cosolvents, emulsifiers, humectants, antioxidants, surface active agents, preservatives, and emollients are discussed with respect to their functional activity. The article also discusses the physicochemical and rheological properties. Moreover, new developments like nano-based excipients, modified polymer-based excipients, lipid-based excipients, and new formulation approaches are discussed, which are used for improving drug penetration and release. The review also covers various types of semi-solid dosage forms, their advantages and disadvantages, and equipment used in the process of manufacturing. In conclusion, the study highlights the emerging role of new excipient technologies in enhancing the quality and therapeutic performance of modern topical drug delivery systems.