Formulation of Emulsions A typical emulsion consists of API (drug), oil, water and excipients (non-drug). Type of drug depends on the internal phase. If internal phase is oil (in o/w emulsion) the drug is lipid soluble/ hydrophobic and vice versa. Excipients include antioxidants, emulsifying agents (surfactants, those obtained from natural sources [gums] and finely divided solids) and preservatives (antimicrobial agents). ANTIOXIDANTS Role : to avoid degradation of oils and drugs due to oxidation. Oxidation may occur due to slight incorporation of air during mfg. Oils also may get rancid. Oxidising agents (metal impurities) may enter in emulsions through water source. Antioxidants prevent such spoilage by either blocking chain recation or oxidation of foreign bodies. Types of oils used in emulsions : vegetable oils, mineral oils, vitamin oils. Other : Steroidal materials. Antioxidants : Alkyl gallates, Butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT), Butylated hydroxy anisole (BHA) and tocopherols.
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