Dapsone-Loaded Microsponge Gel for Acne Management: Preparation, Characterization and Anti-Microbial Activity

Background: Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disorder involving Propionibacterium acnes and activation of lymphocytes and neutrophils. Dapsone (sulfone drug) possesses potent anti-microbial activities and hence, it is used to cure multiple inflamed acne lesions. Howbeit, its therapeutic utility is hampered, owing to its poor solubility and side effects like mild irritation and dryness. These problems, along with orange-brown discoloration on skin, restrict the topical application of this drug. Objective: The objective of the present investigation was to address the above-mentioned limitations like irritation, dryness, and skin discoloration of dapsone via formulating microsponge based gel of this moiety. Methods: Dapsone microsponges were fabricated and embedded into a carbopol gel for topical application. The drug loaded ethylcellulose microsponges were crafted employing a quasi emulsion solvent diffusion technique. Besides routine characterization, these microformulations were assessed for entrapment, particle size analysis, and drug release. Furthermore, anti-acne potential was also evaluated against Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus to check their therapeutic efficiency. The prepared dapsone microsponge gel was assessed for its viscosity, spreadability, texture, and drug release. Results: Results revealed that dapsone loaded microsponges were successfully fabricated and found to possess good encapsulation efficiency (84.68 ± 5.73%), which is in micro-size range (88.06 ± 2.97 μm to 315.87 ± 1.99 μm) and showed cumulative drug release of 52.52 ± 0.2%. Field emission scanning electron microscopy illustrated spherical, uniform, and spongy microparticles. The developed micro formulation showed promising activity against the chosen acne bacterias and improved stability. Conclusion: The obtained results corroborate the premise that dapsone loaded microsponge gel can be an effective strategy for acne management.