In-Situ Film-Forming Solution for Topical Application of Terbinafine Hcl: Biopharmaceutical Evaluation and in Vivo Antifungal Performance Using Animal Model

Abstract

Objective: The main purpose of this study is to develop a film-forming solution with optimum physical-mechanical characteristics and excellent antifungal activity to enhance deposition and penetration into the stratum corneum (SC). Methods: The film-forming solutions of terbinafine HCl were formulated using methacrylate copolymers, polyethylene glycol 400, and ethanol as diluent. The selected formulations were subjected to test of physical-mechanical properties, drug release, drug permeation across the stratum corneum and drug deposition study. The best formulation was further evaluated for in vivo antifungal efficacy. Results: The selected formulations exhibited superior pharmaceutical characteristics, including rapid drying, non-stickiness, and being transparency on the skin. Formulation A (FA) had significantly lower tensile strength (4.78 N/m2, p<0.05) and higher percentage elongation at break (33.61%, p<0.05), which reduced the firmness of the film, allowing it to be super-flexible in following the movement of the skin and preventing loss of film through abrasion. FA showed significantly (p<0.05) rapid drug permeation (1510.51 µg/cm2) across the stratum corneum (SC) at 24 h when compared with the other formulations and the positive control proprietary drug (PD), Terbex® cream formulation (475.8 µg/cm2). Conclusion: Having superior physical-mechanical and drug permeation characteristics, FA can be considered as an efficient, reproducible, and efficacious antifungal formulation for topical application.

The Impact of Superficial Dermatophytosis on Quality of Life in a Rural Population: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

“…It affects their sleep, personal life, work life, as well as social life. There have been many promising studies on advanced treatment options that aim to improve the overall quality of life (QoL) of patients suffering from dermatophytosis [11,12]. In general, QoL is the patient's sense of well-being in various domains of life, such as physical health, psychological status, sexual well-being, financial status, occupation, and social interaction [13].…”