Volume :
2
Issue :
3
Abstract :
Ofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone derivative used in topical products as an antibacterial agent. The objective of this work was to prepare and evaluate microemulsion (ME) systems with a view to increase percutaneous absorption of ofloxacin. Similar concentrations of ofloxacin were incorporated in a microemulsion base composed of isopropyl myristate, water and Tween 80: Propylene glycol in the ratio of 6:1 and 15:1. Pseudo-ternary phase diagrams were used to obtain the concentration ranges of the oil, surfactant (Tween-80) and co-surfactant (Propylene glycol) for microemulsion formation. Five different formulations were formulated with various amount of the oil, water and the mixture of surfactant and co-surfactant at the ratio of 15:1. The ME systems were evaluated by examining under cross-polarizing microscope, measuring of percent transmittance, pH measurement, determination of the specific gravity, assessment of rheological properties and in vitro permeability studies. Out of all the prepared formulations ME5 (Isopropyl myristate:amphiphilic mixture:water=26:55:19%w/v) was considered to be the best formulation. Hence the microemulsion system is also or one of the promising tool for percutaneous delivery of ofloxacin.