EFFECT OF EXCIPIENTS ON THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND STRUCTURAL PROPERTIES OF A TOPICAL FOAM FORMULATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/health-2026.1.19Keywords:
dermal foam, doxycycline hyclate, dexpanthenol, foam-forming properties, rheology, foam volume stability, foam microstructure, wound-healing medicinal productsAbstract
Aim: to develop the composition and technology of a medicinal product with wound-healing action in the form of an aerosol by developing stable foam compositions and to establish the influence of excipients on the rheological, structural, and foam-forming properties of the system. Materials and methods. The objects of the study were emulsion matrix solutions of the “oil–water” type containing doxycycline hyclate, dexpanthenol, cetearyl alcohol, tween 80, stearic acid, propylene glycol, ethanol 95%, methyl- and propylparaben, purified water, and sodium hydroxide. Foams were obtained by filling the matrix solutions into aerosol cans with a propellant (propane–butane–isobutane). The evaluation of the macroscopic characteristics was performed visually, based on the homogeneity, height, and color of the foam. Foam-forming properties were assessed using the following parameters: expansion volume, foam stability, volumetric stability, relative density, and duration of expansion. Viscosity was measured using a rotational viscometer at different shear rates, and the foam microstructure was studied by light microscopy at magnifications ×40 and ×100. Results. It was established that the ratio of foaming agents, emulsifiers, and stabilizers significantly affects the rheological and functional properties of topical foams. All the studied systems exhibited a pseudoplastic flow behavior, which ensures efficient dispensing and foam formation. Composition No. 4 was the most rational according to the set of indicators, characterized by the maximum foam expansion (210 ±2.88%), minimal liquid drainage (15± 0.2%), the highest foam volume stability (90± 1.52%), and relative foam density (0.6012). Microscopic analysis showed that the optimal bubble dispersity (100–300 μm) in combination with the balanced viscosity of the dispersion medium ensures the formation of a structured, creamy, and stable foam. It was established that an increase in the content of cetearyl alcohol and stearic acid contributes to strengthening the foam structure, whereas an excess of propylene glycol reduces its stability. Conclusions. The composition and technology of an aerosol foam for dermal wound-healing action based on doxycycline hyclate and dexpanthenol were scientifically substantiated. It was proven that the rheological, foam-forming, and structural-mechanical properties of the foam are determined by the balanced content of emulsifiers, stabilizers, and the viscosity of the dispersion medium. It was established that the optimal composition ensures the formation of a homogeneous, stable, creamy foam with high volume stability, the ability to retain liquid, and favorable characteristics for dermal application. The obtained results confirm the prospects of using the developed aerosol foam system as an effective dosage form for local therapy and wound healing
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