Formulation, Selection, Physical Properties, and Antifungal Effect Evaluation of Semi-Solid Dosage Forms with Organic Acids

This study evaluated the antifungal activity of various organic acids against Microsporum canis, focusing on cinnamic acid, which showed the highest activity in solution form. When incorporated into poloxamer 407/hydroxyethyl cellulose hydrogels, cinnamic acid maintained its antifungal properties but exhibited reduced diffusion, resulting in smaller inhibition zones compared to the solution. This reduction is attributed to the hydrogel's three-dimensional polymer network and higher viscosity. Despite these limitations, the hydrogels offer potential for prolonged local antifungal exposure, suggesting their suitability for retaining the drug within skin layers and hair follicles. Further research is needed to assess release kinetics and in vivo effectiveness.