RESEARCHERS have developed a nanoemulsion-based gel containing sertaconazole that may improve the treatment of deep skin fungal infections by enhancing drug delivery into deeper skin layers. Findings from a preclinical study suggest the formulation achieved greater skin retention and antifungal efficacy than both a nanoemulsion alone and a commercially available cream.
The study evaluated a series of sertaconazole-loaded nanoemulsions and nanoemulsion gels using in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models. Researchers assessed key physicochemical properties, including particle size, zeta potential, morphology, drug loading, and release characteristics, before examining skin permeation, skin retention, and antifungal efficacy.
Gel Improves Drug Retention
The nanoemulsions produced particles ranging from approximately 183–201 nm with near-spherical morphology. Drug compatibility with formulation excipients was confirmed by ATR-FTIR analysis.
While the nanoemulsions achieved high in vitro drug release (86.4–96.3%), incorporating the formulation into a gel produced a more controlled release profile, with 65.4–81.2% drug release. Ex vivo testing also demonstrated that the gel provided more controlled permeation through the skin while retaining a greater proportion of the drug within skin tissue.
The optimised gel formulation, designated FSNEG6, achieved the highest skin drug retention (19.3%) compared with its corresponding nanoemulsion (11.4%). According to the researchers, the combination of Tween 80, PEG400, almond oil, and carbopol contributed to enhanced penetration into deeper skin layers.
Superior Activity Against Fungal Skin Infection
Safety testing in rats found the nanoemulsion gel to be non-irritant following topical application. In vivo studies further showed that the optimised gel demonstrated significantly greater antifungal efficacy than both the nanoemulsion formulation and a commercially available sertaconazole cream.
The improved therapeutic effect was attributed to sustained drug release alongside enhanced penetration and retention within the skin, potentially allowing higher drug concentrations to reach the site of infection.
Potential for Improved Topical Therapy
The authors conclude that the developed nanoemulsion gel represents a promising topical delivery system for sertaconazole, offering improved penetration into deep skin layers while maintaining controlled drug release. Although the findings are limited to preclinical models, the formulation may provide a foundation for future clinical studies evaluating more effective topical treatments for deep fungal skin infections.
Reference
Ullah Z et al. Formulation development of Sertaconazole loaded nanoemulsion and gel for the management of deep skin fungal infection: in vitro, ex-vivo and in vivo characterizations. Arch Dermatol Res. 2026; 318:229.
Featured image: Valeriia on Adobe Stock
- Author:
