Basics of Pharmaceutical Emulsion: A Review
Keywords:
Emulsion, Microemulsion, Multiple Emulsion, Emulsifying Agents, Drug Delivery, Pharmaceutical Formulation, Emulsion StabilityAbstract
Emulsions are biphasic systems consisting of two immiscible liquids, where one liquid is dispersed in the form of droplets within the other with the help of an emulsifying agent to ensure stability. They are widely used in pharmaceutical formulations for both oral and topical applications. This review provides an overview of the types of emulsions—oil-in-water (o/w), water-in-oil (w/o), multiple emulsions, and microemulsions—highlighting their structural characteristics, preparation methods, and pharmaceutical significance. Common preparation techniques such as the dry gum and wet gum methods are discussed in detail. The article also outlines various tests for identifying the type of emulsion and provides guidelines for packaging, labelling, and storage. Advantages of emulsions include improved drug solubility, taste masking, and enhanced absorption, while limitations such as instability and short shelf-life are also addressed. This review serves as a concise reference for understanding the formulation and application of emulsions in pharmaceutical sciences.
How to cite this article:
Neeraj P, Sohal T. Basics of Pharmaceutical
Emulsion: A Review. Rec Trends Pharm Tech
IndI 2024 6(2): 5-7.
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