Enhanced Synergistic Antifungal Potential of Ketoconazole and Neomycin Sulphate in Neosome Formulation: A Thin-Film Hydration Approach

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to enhance the antifungal efficacy of Ketoconazole and Neomycin Sulphate through the development of a neosome formulation using the thin-film hydration method. The combination aims to leverage the synergistic antifungal properties of both drugs, improving drug stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic effectiveness while minimizing side effects.

Materials and Method: Ketoconazole, Neomycin Sulphate, cholesterol, and surfactants were used in the preparation of neosomes. The neosome formulation was created via the thin-film hydration method, where a lipid film was formed by dissolving the lipids in an organic solvent, followed by evaporation to form a thin lipid layer. The film was then hydrated using an aqueous phase containing the drugs. The formed vesicles were sonicated to achieve the desired size. Particle size, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency were evaluated. The antifungal activity of the formulation was tested against fungal strains using the agar diffusion method. Drug release studies were conducted to examine the sustained release profile.

Result and Discussion: The neosome formulation demonstrated a uniform particle size, with zeta potential indicating good stability. Encapsulation efficiency of both Ketoconazole and Neomycin Sulphate was high, ensuring effective drug loading. The antifungal assay revealed that the combination of Ketoconazole and Neomycin Sulphate in neosome form exhibited significantly enhanced antifungal activity compared to the individual drugs. The sustained release profile further enhanced the therapeutic efficacy. The synergy between the two drugs contributed to broader antifungal spectrum and reduced minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values.

Conclusion: The neosome formulation of Ketoconazole and Neomycin Sulphate prepared by the thin-film hydration method successfully improved the antifungal efficacy of the drugs, demonstrating enhanced synergistic effects, improved drug release, and stability. This formulation holds promise for more effective topical antifungal treatments.