Abstract

FORULATION AND EVALUATION OF TRANSDERMAL PATCH FOR THE TREATMENT OF FUNGAL NAIL INFECTION

*Sangeeta Manjhi and Bishesar Sahu

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Abstract

Onychomycosis, a fungal infection affecting the toenails or fingernails, presents treatment challenges due to limited nail blood supply and the adverse effects of systemic antifungal drugs. This study aimed to develop and evaluate tavaborole-loaded transdermal patches as an alternative treatment using the solvent casting method. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone K30 (PVP K30) were employed as film-forming polymers, while polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) functioned as both a plasticizer and penetration enhancer. The formulated patches were assessed for their physicochemical properties, including thickness, weight uniformity, moisture content, folding endurance, tensile strength, elongation percentage, and drug content. The results demonstrated uniformity, flexibility, and adequate mechanical strength, ensuring effective drug delivery. The adhesive patch system facilitated sustained drug release and enhanced ungual penetration, offering a promising, patient-friendly alternative to conventional treatments for onychomycosis.

Keywords: Onychomycosis, Transdermal patch, Tavaborole, Physiochemical evaluation.