Emulgels as Effective Carriers for Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Drugs: A Review

Emulgels have emerged as a promising drug delivery system, combining the advantages of emulsions and gels to enhance the topical and transdermal delivery of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. Their biphasic nature allows for improved drug solubility, stability, and controlled release, making them an ideal choice for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. Emulgels utilize a gel base, often composed of hydrogel or organogel, to enhance the viscosity and provide prolonged drug retention at the application site. The incorporation of oil-in-water (O/W) or water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions ensures compatibility with a broad spectrum of drugs, improving bioavailability and penetration through the skin. Compared to conventional gels and creams, emulgels exhibit superior spreadability, patient compliance, and ease of application. The review explores the formulation components, mechanisms of drug release, advantages over traditional carriers, and recent advancements in the field, emphasizing their role in delivering poorly water-soluble drugs efficiently. Moreover, the therapeutic applications of emulgels in dermatology, pain management, antifungal treatments, and wound healing are discussed, highlighting their potential for future pharmaceutical innovations.