Formulation And Evaluation of Antifungal Nail Lacquer for Treatment of Onychomycosis

The study aimed to develop and evaluate an antifungal nail lacquer containing Fluconazole for the treatment of onychomycosis, a prevalent fungal infection of the nails. Fluconazole-based nail lacquers were formulated using nitrocellulose as a film-forming agent, along with ethyl cellulose, dibutyl phthalate, salicylic acid, and suitable solvents. The lacquers were evaluated for their physical properties, including non-volatile content, drying time, gloss, viscosity, smoothness of flow, and stability under ICH conditions. Drug content estimation and in vitro diffusion studies across artificial membranes were conducted to assess the release profile. The antifungal activity was evaluated against Candida albicans using the cup-plate method. The formulations exhibited excellent film-forming properties with optimal drying time, smooth flow, and desirable gloss. Drug content analysis confirmed uniformity, and diffusion studies indicated sustained drug release. Antimicrobial studies demonstrated significant inhibition of Candida albicans, confirming the formulation's efficacy. Stability studies revealed that the lacquer retained its physical and functional properties under accelerated conditions. The developed Fluconazole nail lacquer demonstrated promising physicochemical and antifungal properties, making it a potential therapeutic option for effective management of onychomycosis.