Objective::Conventional topical antifungal therapies often exhibit limited efficacy,
poor patient adherence, and inadequate stability. To address these challenges, a microwaveassisted
clove oil-based organogel of sertaconazole nitrate was developed to enhance antifungal
activity, sustain drug release, and improve long-term stability.
Methods::Organogels were prepared using sertaconazole nitrate, clove oil, Carbopol 934, and
polyethylene glycol 400. Physicochemical parameters, including pH, viscosity, spreadability, and
drug content, were evaluated, followed by in vitro drug release and ex vivo skin permeation studies
using Franz diffusion cells. Antifungal activity was tested against Candida albicans and Trichophyton
rubrum, while in vivo therapeutic efficacy and skin irritation were assessed in a dermatophytosis
rat model. The long-term stability of the formulation was monitored for 24 months.
Results::The optimized formulation (F12) showed excellent performance, with a drug content of
99.96%, viscosity of 41.45 Pa.s, and spreadability of 26.81 g.cm/sec. Drug release reached
99.5% within 24 hours, following zero-order kinetics with a non-Fickian release mechanism. Ex
vivo permeation was significantly higher (99.2%) than that of the marketed cream (81.7%). Enhanced
antifungal activity was observed, with inhibition zones of 1.82 cm (Candida albicans)
and 2.01 cm (Trichophyton rubrum). In vivo studies confirmed effective therapeutic action without
signs of skin irritation. Notably, the formulation maintained its physicochemical integrity and
antifungal potency throughout 24 months of storage.
Discussion::The microwave-assisted technique proved to be a simple, reproducible, and efficient
approach for organogel fabrication. The inclusion of clove oil contributed to improved antifungal
performance and enhanced skin permeation, thereby strengthening the formulation’s therapeutic
potential.
Conclusion::The developed sertaconazole nitrate organogel demonstrated a safe, effective, and
stable topical delivery system with superior antifungal efficacy and long-term stability, representing
a promising alternative to conventional antifungal therapies.