Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science 17 (2012) 306–313

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Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science

journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/cocis

Microemulsions as delivery systems

Monzer Fanun
Colloids and Surfaces Research Center, Al-Quds University, East Jerusalem, Palestine

a r t i c l e i n f o a b s t r a c t

Article history: Solubilization capacity, dissolution efficiency, rate and extent of solute delivery are dependent on the micro-
Received 3 February 2012 emulsion microstructure.
Accepted 15 June 2012 © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Available online 30 June 2012

Keywords:
Solubilization capacity
Dissolution rate
Generator of delivery systems
Delivery route
Delivery rate

1. Introduction
Microemulsions are transparent systems of two immiscible fluids,
stabilized by an interfacial film of surfactant or a mixture of surfac-
tants, frequently in combination with a cosurfactant. These systems
could be classified as water-in-oil, bicontinuous or oil-in-water type
depending on their microstructure which is influenced by their physi-
cochemical properties and the extent of their ingredients [1,2]. Micro-
emulsions are characterized by ultra low interfacial tension between
the immiscible phases and offer the advantage of spontaneous forma-
tion, thermodynamic stability, simplicity of manufacture, solubilization
capacity of lipophilic, hydrophilic and amphiphilic solutes, improved
solubilization and bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs, the large area
per volume ratio for mass transfer, and the potential for permeation en-
hancement. The development of delivery systems has had a huge im-
pact on our ability to treat numerous diseases. To attain the highest
pharmacological effects with least side effects of drugs, drugs should
be delivered to target sites without significant distribution to non-target
areas. Microemulsion systems have emerged as novel vehicles for drug
delivery which allow sustained or controlled release for transdermal, top-
ical, oral, nasal, intravenous, ocular, parenteral and other administration
routes of drugs. Microemulsion drug delivery is a practical delivery plat-
form for improving target specificity, therapeutic activity, and reducing
toxicity of drugs. Owing to the existence of different domains of variable
polarity in the microemulsion systems, they show an enormous potential
to be used as delivery vehicles for a diversity of drugs [1,2]. In this review
article, we have attempted to present a broad view over the past five
years on microemulsions as solubilization and dissolution enhancers of
E-mail address: fanunm@gmail.com.
poorly soluble drugs, as a medium for generating new drug delivery sys-
tems and as delivery systems themselves.
2. Microemulsions as solubilization capacity enhancer and disso-
lution rate improver
In recent years microemulsions continued to be used as solubiliza-
tion capacity enhancers and dissolution rate improvers for poorly sol-
uble drugs. The works in this area focus on two aspects: first, the
effect of different microemulsion structures on drug solubilization ca-
pacity and dissolution efficiency and secondly, on the physicochemi-
cal characterization of drug loaded microemulsions compared to drug
free systems. Biocompatible microemulsions were used to solubilize
cephalexin. The drug solubilization capacity depends on the aqueous
phase content. Characterization of the volumetric and transport prop-
erties of the microemulsions revealed that the rigidity of the interface
was affected by the presence of the drug [3]. The microstructure of
microemulsion loaded with meloxicam was characterized. It was
found that the solubilization capability of microemulsion is strongly
interrelated with its microstructure [4]. Solubilization capacity and
dissolution efficiency of glyburide (a very poorly-water-soluble hypo-
glycemic agent) were enhanced by the formulation of microemulsions
which consisted of a mixture of tween 20 and transcutol, 1:1, v/v, oil
(labrafac hydro) and water [5]. Monodisperse microemulsions solubi-
lizing nadifloxacin show promising results against Propionibacterium
acnes bacteria. Optimized formulations were characterized for surface
morphology by transmission electron microscopy and refractive index.
Flux of the optimized formulation was 2.24 times that of the control
[6]. Azithromycin loaded microemulsions were investigated at room
temperature by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) technique. It was
found that the values of the effective interaction radius of the micro-
emulsions are higher for the drug free compared to the drug loaded

1359-0294/$ – see front matter © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
doi:10.1016/j.cocis.2012.06.001
 M. Fanun / Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science 17 (2012) 306–313
aggregates [7]. Microemulsions were used for the solubilization of gan-
oderma lucidum polysaccharides and triterpenes against transplant
tumor growth. The formulated systems significantly inhibit the tumor
growth in Heps mice [8]. U-type microemulsions formulated with
water, mixed nonionic surfactants, and peppermint oil were used to sol-
ubilize celecoxib. Celecoxib solubilization capacity decreases with the in-
crease in the water content. Microemulsion dilution and interfacial
factors contributing to the celecoxib solubilization were evaluated. Struc-
tural transitions occurring in the microemulsion region were elucidated
by electrical conductivity, dynamic viscosity, and small angle X-ray scat-
tering measurements [9]. Celecoxib solubility enhancement of formulat-
ed microemulsions was apparent from a higher release rate as compared
to commercial product [10]. Enhanced diclofenac solubilization capacity
was observed in biocompatible microemulsions based on mixed nonion-
ic surfactants and R(+)-limonene or isopropylmyristate. Solubilization
capacity of the drug was dependent on the oil type and microstructure
of the microemulsion [11]. Solubilized drug affected the points of struc-
tural transitions as revealed by small angle X-ray scattering measure-
ments [12]. Diclofenac diethylamine (DDA) was also solubilized in
microemulsions and an analytical method was developed and validated
to evaluate its content [13]. Solubilization capacity of carbamazepine, an
antiepileptic drug, in U-type nonionic microemulsions was studied. Sol-
ubilization capacity of the drug was reliant on the microstructure of the
microemulsion and on the surfactant-to-oil phase weight ratio. The sol-
ubilization capacity in the concentrate (reversed micelles) was 15 folds
higher than its solubility in the oil. Being solubilized, carbamazepine
acts as a cosurfactant consequently it influences the curvatures of the mi-
crostructures and as a result the boundaries of the structural regions and
the transition points between the different phases [14]. Self micro-
emulsifying drug delivery system containing carbamazepine was also
formulated and evaluated as a possible alternative to traditional oral for-
mulation. The study confirmed that these formulations improve carba-
mazepine solubility and dissolution rate [15]. Anionic microemulsions
containing antitumor drug doxorubicin were formulated and character-
ized. The results confirmed a correlation between the composition, the
structural features and drug delivery [16]. Self-microemulsifying drug
delivery system formulation has been developed for the solubilization
of poorly soluble drug nilvadipine [17]. Solid lipid nanoparticles, nano-
structured lipid carriers, nanoemulsions, and microemulsions were
used solubilize querecetin. Microemulsions exhibited the highest capac-
ity to load the drug, reaching a concentration around 1300 times higher
than its aqueous solubility. The release rate of querecetin was affected by
the properties of the microemulsions [18]. Microemulsions were
prepared and examined as a probable drug delivery system for an
antitubercular drug rifampicin. The microemulsion remained stable
following the inclusion of rifampicin. Dissolution studies conclude that
a controlled release of rifampicin is expected from oil-in-water droplet
[19]. New oil-in-water microemulsion was used for enhancing the load-
ing capacity of an anti-inflammatory drug piroxicam. It was found that
the piroxicam was contained in the interfacial film of microemulsion sys-
tems more deeply in the palisade layer with ethanol as the cosurfactant
[20]. Numerous isoflavone-enriched red clover extracts (RCE) were en-
capsulated into a phospholipid-based microemulsion system. The
results indicated that the encapsulated quantities of isoflavones
in RCE-encapsulated microemulsions were increased by over 10-fold
when compared with that of the raw red clover extracts [21]. Solid
microemulsions were formulated for improved delivery of simvastatin.
Dissolution studies have shown remarkable increase in the dissolution
of the drug as compared to plain drug. All the formulations provided
significant reduction in the total cholesterol levels in hyperlipidemic
rats with reference to rats of control group [22]. Micronization is for
the most part an efficient method to increase the dissolution rate of
poorly water-soluble drugs and bioavailability in human body. Micro-
emulsion systems were applied to micronize mitotane and warfarin
by cooling method and solvent diffusion process. The particle size of
mitotane and warfarin re-crystallized from microemulsion systems
307
were significantly reduced (to ∼1 μm) compared with that of the com-
mercial ones. As a result, the dissolution rate coefficients of re-crystallized
mitotane and warfarin were considerably enhanced by, respectively, 7.5
and 13.3 times larger than those of the commercial ones [23]. Water-in-
oil microemulsion was formulated and used in the preparation of
cetirizine hydrochloride. Quality studies on these microemulsions show
that these systems could be a promising new carrier for hydrosoluble
drugs [24].
3. Microemulsions as generators of drug delivery systems
In recent years microemulsions were used to generate, formulate
and synthesize new drug delivery systems that include new tablets
type, microspheres, lipid nanocapsules, microparticles, silica coated
nanoparticles, gel nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, magnetic
nanoparticles and quantum dots. The influence of hydroxyapatite
[Ca5(PO4)3OH, HAP] tablets generated via microemulsion after sintering
at 700 °C on ibuprofen release profiles revealed that controlling micro-
emulsion concentration in tablets before sintering affects the drug re-
lease from the HAP tablets [25]. Core–shell structure adriamycin lipiodol
microemulsions (ADM-CSLMs) were prepared through the emulsi-
fication method and evaluated for their in vivo antitumor effects in
combination with diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC). Two types of
ADM-CSLMs, adriamycin liposome-lipiodol microemulsion (ADM-LLM)
and adriamycin microsphere lipiodol microemulsion (ADM-MLM) were
prepared. The drug loading and encapsulation efficiency of ADM-CSLMs
were measured by the high-performance liquid chromatography
(HPLC). It was found that ADM-CSLMs are useful carriers for the
treatment of carcinoma and their anti-tumor effect can be enhanced
by DDC in a suitable concentration [26]. A new type of triangular
pyramid-shaped microparticles of puerarin and aspirin were prepared
on copper substrate by using oil-in-oil microemulsion method [27].
Radiolabelled and fluorescent lipid nanocapsules (LNCs) were synthe-
sized by using a phase inversion process that follows the formation of
an oil/water microemulsion. They are important to be considered to-
ward the development of nanomedicines that use drugs sensitive to ly-
sosomal degradation or that need to reach extra endo-lysosomal targets
[28]. Hyaluronic acid (HA) particles with positive and negative charges
on their surfaces were synthesized using an aqueous solution of linear
HA in a sodium bis (2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT)-isooctane
microemulsion system. The prepared HA particles were post modified
and were found to be used as drug delivery vehicles for trimethoprim
and naproxen as model drugs [29]. Hydrophobic drug nanoparticles,
in a form of water dispersible powder were formulated by rapid conver-
sion of nanodroplets into nanoparticles, by evaporation of all volatile
solvents from microemulsions containing a dissolved drug in the dis-
persed oil phase. Powders composed of either amorphous or crystalline
particles at the size range of 10–100 nm were obtained [30]. A fully
water-dilutable biocompatible microemulsion system was used as a
template for the preparation of celecoxib nanoparticles obtained as
amorphous dry powder. As a result of the nanometric size and amor-
phous state, about 10-fold increase in dissolution of the powder was
obtained, compared to that for particulate celecoxib in the presence of
surfactants [31]. Celecoxib nanoparticles in powder were obtained by
immediate conversion of microemulsion droplets into nanoparticles
by spray drying [32]. Stable nanoparticles with inner spherical solid
spheres and an outer hydrogel matrix were prepared using a hot
oil-in-water hydrogel-thickened microemulsion. The in vitro skin per-
meation studies showed that the nanoparticles could considerably de-
crease the penetration of model drugs through skin and resulted in
their dermal uptakes in skin [33]. Oil-in-water microemulsions were
used for the preparation of nanoparticles of a poorly water-soluble
drug, simvastatin by solvent evaporation method. It was found that tab-
lets containing the flakes of simvastatin nanoparticles showed great en-
hancement in dissolution profile compared with conventional tablets
[34]. The entrapment of insulin in poly(alkylcyanoacrylate) nanoparticles
308 M. Fanun / Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science 17 (2012) 306–313
prepared from microemulsions with different microstructures was opti-
mized. The study demonstrated a strategy of delivering insulin orally
[35]. Poly(ethylcyanoacrylate) nanoparticles to be used as drug delivery
systems were prepared by interfacial polymerization on the basis of
microemulsions [36]. Microemulsion method was used to prepare Rhoda-
mine B isothiocyanate doped silica-coated (RBITC-SiO2) nanoparticles
that were conjugated with Fe(III) complex of di(picolyl)amine to produce
final nanosphere (RBITC-SiO2@dpa-Fe). The conjugate proves to be a
novel multi-functional nanoparticles that combine the advantages of ac-
tive cancer-targeting through Fe(III) complex mediated intracellular
drug delivery and compatibility with fluorescence imaging [37]. Hypo-
crellin A (HA), a hydrophobic photosensitive anti-cancer drug was deliv-
ered to cancer cells in vitro using silica nano-carrier (SNDS) prepared
using microemulsion method. Comparative studies have demonstrated
that the in vitro efficacy of encapsulated HA-SNDS is obvious superior
to free HA [38,39]. Biodegradable amphiphilic poly(ether-anhydride)
gel nanoparticles (GNPs) with a hydrophobic crosslinked core and a hy-
drophilic PEG shell have been found to be potentially useful to control
the release of hydrophobic drugs. These GNPs were prepared from am-
phiphilic photo-crosslinkable ether-anhydride macromers via micro-
emulsion photo-polymerization [40]. Sodium fluoride catalyzed
hydrolysis of tetraethyl orthosilicate in a water-in-oil microemulsion
was used as a one-pot synthesis of doxorubicin-doped silica nanoparticles
(Dox/SiNPs). It was suggested that Dox/SiNPs modified with the aptamer
sgc8c (sgc8c-Dox/SiNPs) possibly will be a useful new tumor therapy sys-
tem [41]. Hyaluronic acid hydrogel particles were synthesized in a single
step employing water-in-oil microemulsion system. The particles were
chemically modified to induce desired functional groups on the particle
surface and utilized for potential drug delivery vehicles. Trimethoprim, a
bacteriostatic antibiotic drug, was used as a model drug for the re-
lease studies in phosphate buffer solution [42]. Idebenone solid
lipid nanoparticles generated in oil-in-water microemulsions by
the phase-inversion temperature method are regarded as interest-
ing drug delivery. Idebenone release was dependent both on the
type of primary surfactant used and the amount of loaded drug.
The tested solid lipid nanoparticles could be regarded as interesting car-
riers to overcome the blood brain barrier and increase the efficacy of the
loaded drug [43]. Resveratrol, an anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and
blood sugar-lowering drug, was contained in solid lipid nanoparticles
prepared in microemulsions by hot solvent diffusion method [44].
Solid lipid nanoparticles containing the anti-inflammatory drug, ace-
clofenac, were produced using the Gasco microemulsion method with
three different lipids, namely glyceryl behenate, glyceryl palmitostearate
and cetyl alcohol. It was found that as the drug lipid molar concentration
was raised, particles with a smaller size were obtained irrespective of the
nature of the lipid. The study recommends glyceryl behenate as a suit-
able candidate for the production of solid lipid nanoparticles [45]. Glyceryl
monostearate solid lipid nanoparticles were generated in a biocompatible
microemulsion as a template. Tretinoin, a lipophilic anti-acne agent was
successfully incorporated into the generated solid lipid nanoparticles as
a model drug [46]. Extracts of Kaempferia parviflora were formulated in
solid lipid nanoparticles using oil-in-water microemulsions in order to
improve their transdermal permeability [47]. Solid lipid nanoparticles of
two anthracyclines, idarubicin and doxorubicin were developed from
warm microemulsion precursors comprising emulsifying wax as the oil
phase, and polyoxyl 20-stearyl ether (Brij 78) and D-alpha-tocopheryl
polyethylene glycol succinate (Vitamin E TPGS) as the surfactants. The
present study suggests that the developed solid lipid nanoparticles may
offer potential to deliver anticancer drugs [48]. Solid lipid nanoparticles
have been prepared from oil-in-water microemulsion, using various
monoglycerides as solid matrix, polyethylene glycol sorbitan monooleate
as emulsifier, and chloramphenicol as target drug. Effects of types and
concentration of lipids, and surface modifiers on drug release behavior
were studied [49]. Ibuprofen loaded magnetic solid lipid nanoparticles
(Ib-MSLNs) were successfully fabricated using a warm oil-in-water
microemulsion [50]. Oil-in-water microemulsions were used to develop
magnetic magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles with zero-valent Fe cores
and magnetite shells. The superior magnetic properties of zero-valent Fe
give these particles the potential for improved specific absorption rate
over pure magnetite particles. This magnetic nanoparticle hyper-
thermia is believed to opening new doors in cancer therapy [51].
Thermo, pH and magnetic field responsive core–shell particles of
poly(acrylonitrile-co-N-isopropylacrylamide), a potentially guid-
ed drug delivery vehicles, were synthesized by microemulsion po-
lymerization [52]. The chitosan-coated magnetic nanoparticles were
prepared as carriers of 5-fluorouracil through a reverse microemulsion
method [53]. Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) particles synthesized in
microemulsions and demonstrated as the delivery system of acyclovir
as the model drug. The synthesized CMC particles were made magnet-
ically responsive by encasing independently prepared magnetic ferrite
particles (Fe3O4) in CMC polymeric particles during the synthesis as
magnetic-CMC. It was determined that these particles obtained from
the natural CMC polymers have a potential range of application as drug
delivery systems [54]. Thermosensitive and magnetic nanoparticles
were synthesized by reverse microemulsion and radical polymerization.
Combined thermosensitive and magnetic properties, nanoparticles could
be utilized in controlled drug‐targeting delivery [55]. Microemulsions
were also used to synthesize quantum dot-ligand systems that can be ef-
fectively used as imaging/contrast agents in live-cell confocal microsco-
py. The microemulsion technique proved to be highly reproducible,
cheap and controllable, for synthesizing novel transducers for biosensing
[56].
4. Microemulsions as delivery systems
Microemulsions were formulated to be used themselves as carriers
of drugs. Different routes of delivery that include transdermal, dermal,
topical, oral, nasal, ocular, parenteral, and others continued to be inves-
tigated in the past five years.
4.1. Transdermal
Transdermal drug delivery presents both unique opportunities
and obstacles due to skin structure, physiology, and barrier proper-
ties. The skin, the biggest organ of the body, may be viewed either
as a natural protective barrier against penetration of toxic exogenous
compounds, excessive loss of water and other essential compounds,
or as a promising portal of entry for drugs for local and/or systemic
action. Particular accumulation of drugs in certain skin layers or in the
blood circulation is the endeavor of (trans-)dermal targeting. The use
of microemulsions has been widely implemented as a strategy to im-
prove the percutaneous transport into and across the skin barrier [1,2].
The determination of the major pathway of penetration and the mecha-
nisms by which these formulations work remain crucial.
Microemulsions based on the commercial surfactants tween 80
and span 80 were formulated and used to solubilize and deliver capsaicin
transdermaly. Capsaicin has a variety of pharmacological actions on the
cardiovascular, respiratory and nervous systems [57]. Microemulsions
containing 10% (w/w) naproxen were investigated as effective alternative
transdermal drug delivery systems. The permeation rates of naproxen
from microemulsions were found to be higher than those from the com-
mercially available gel formulations [58]. Transdermal delivery of hydro-
philic drugs (for example, caffeine) was studied in oil-in-water,
water-in-oil, and bicontinuous microemulsions. It was found that caf-
feine skin absorption is microstructure dependent. The oil-in-water
microstructure allows faster transport of hydrophilic drugs [59].
Water‐in-oil microemulsions composed of brine/aerosol-OT/tween 85/
isopropylmyristate were loaded with fluorouracil for transdermal deliv-
ery. The penetration flux of fluorouracil across excised mice skin was de-
termined in vitro using Franz diffusion cells. It was found that the
cumulative amount of fluorouracil permeated in 12 h was 20 folds and
10 folds more than 0.7% fluorouracil aqueous solution and 2.5% (w/w)
 M. Fanun / Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science 17 (2012) 306–313
fluorouracil cream, respectively [60]. The intradermal delivery of a hy-
drophilic polyphenol chlorogenic acid solubilized in microemulsions
was examined by in vitro study using excised guinea pig dorsal skin
and Yucatan micropig skin. It was found that the enhancement effect of
oil-in-water microemulsion was greater than that of a water-in-oil
microemulsion possibly due to the greater increase in solubility. These
findings signify the potential use of hydrophilic chlorogenic acid with
oil-in-water microemulsion as a vehicle to protect the skin against
UV-induced oxidative damage [61]. The use of curcumin for treating var-
ious skin diseases such as scleroderma, psoriasis, and skin cancer was
extensively reported [62,63]. Microemulsion systems composed of eu-
calyptol, polysorbate 80, ethanol, and water were developed as trans-
dermal delivery vehicles for curcumin. The curcumin permeation rate
of the developed microemulsion was 15.7-fold higher than that of the
control (eucalyptol only). Developed microemulsions are a promising
tool for the percutaneous delivery of curcumin [62]. Microemulsion
systems composed of three terpenes (limonene, 1,8-cineole, and
α-terpineol), polysorbate 80, cosurfactants, and water were also in-
vestigated as transdermal delivery vehicles for curcumin. It was
shown that limonene microemulsion system is a promising tool for
the percutaneous delivery of curcumin [63]. The transdermal admin-
istration of nicardipine microemulsions was developed. The permeation
rate and extent of nicardipine microemulsion transport across rat skin
were affected by the ingredients for microemulsion [64]. Microemulsions
were considered as potentially useful vehicles for the transdermal deliv-
ery of testosterone. The characterization of the drug loaded micro-
emulsions demonstrated that the drug was mainly located in the oily
domains of the microemulsions. Testosterone was delivered across the
skin from the microemulsions studied, with the highest flux achieved
(4.6±0.6 μg cm−2 h−1) [65]. The microstructures of meloxicam loaded
microemulsion had accounted for the solubilization potential and trans-
dermal permeation. It was found that water-in-oil microemulsions had
the best solubilization potential, followed by the bicontinuous and the
oil-in-water system, and that oil-in-water microemulsions had the best
permeation rate, followed by the bicontinuous and the water-in-oil
type [66]. Novel oil-in-water microemulsions of ketoprofen for improv-
ing transdermal absorption were formulated. The diffusion rate of
ketoprofen from formulation was fast and rapid than the marketed sam-
ple [67]. Microemulsions based on a vegetable protein surfactant
and 1,2-alkanediols as co-surfactant and loaded with model drug
dihydroavenanthramide D were developed for transdermal deliv-
ery. The formulation demonstrated adequate penetration into via-
ble skin layers and predominantly high permeation rates [68]. A
water-in-oil microemulsion containing dihydroquercetin (DHQ)
(2%) was prepared. Physicochemical parameters and the in vitro
release of DHQ were studied. The proposed microemulsion ensures
uniform prolonged release of the active substance [69]. Micro-
emulsions containing medium-chain glycerides as penetration en-
hancers were formulated to enhance the transdermal delivery of
lipophilic (progesterone) and hydrophilic (adenosine) model drugs
[70]. An aerosol-OT included microemulsion loaded with fluorouracil
was formulated by using appropriate proportion of oil, co-surfactant
and water for increasing the drug transdermal delivery ability [71].
Linker-based lecithin microemulsions were reported as effective trans-
dermal delivery vehicles for lidocaine [72]. Microemulsions were found
to be a promising vehicle for temozolomide acid hexyl ester transder-
mal delivery [73]. Microemulsion-based hydrogel (MBH) that was con-
sidered as promising vehicle transdermal delivery of sinomenium was
developed and evaluated. The transdermal capability of different micro-
emulsion formulations were evaluated in vitro using Franz diffusion
cells fitted with rat skins and sinomenium was analyzed by HPLC. Phar-
macokinetic study in vivo was performed using rabbits, and the area
under curve of plasma concentration-time (AUC0→∞) of MBH was 1.27
times greater than that of the hydrogel [74]. A microemulsion-based hy-
drogel formulation was constructed for the transdermal delivery of dexa-
methasone. Almond oil, olive oil, linseed oil, and nutmeg oil were
309
screened as the oil phase. The capability of various microemulsion for-
mulations to deliver dexamethasone through the rat skin was assessed
in vitro using Keshary Chien diffusion cells. It was demonstrated that
microemulsion-based transdermal systems are a promising formulation
for dermal delivery of dexamethasone [75]. A hydrogel-thickened micro-
emulsion (HTM) was explored for delivering an extremely low con-
centration of triptolide as a model drug. The powerful permeation
enhancing capability of HTM with an appropriate viscosity makes it
a promising alternative transporter for the transdermal administra-
tion of drug molecule at a very low concentration [76]. Microemulsions
formulated using components that are normally present in the skin
were considered as a promising strategy for enhancing skin protection
from oxidative stress by delivering antioxidants such as vitamins C
and E into the skin simultaneously [77]. The composition of micro-
emulsions affected the permeability of buspirone hydrochloride through
rat skin. This study demonstrated that microemulsions could be a
promising drug carrier for transdermal delivery systems [78]. Sever-
al anti-inflammatory drugs applied in the treatment of skin diseases
have been incorporated into skin delivery cyclodextrin-based micro-
emulsions [79]. The feasibility of using microemulsion for transdermal
delivery of tolterodine tartrate was investigated. Drug pharmacokinet-
ics was studied after transdermal application to human volunteers
and a sustained activity due to the controlled release of drug was ob-
served [80]. A skin permeation study for testing the penetration effect
of various curcumin loadings in oil-in-water biocompatible micro-
emulsion with different particle diameters was performed [81]. In vitro
skin permeation of microemulsion drug delivery system containing flu-
conazole (FLZ) was investigated. The efficiency of microemulsion formu-
lation in the topical delivery of FLZ was dependent upon its composition.
Candida albicans was used as a model fungus to assess the antifungal ac-
tion of the best prescription attained, which demonstrated the widest re-
gion of inhibition as compared to FLZ cnce [82]. The permeating ability of
penciclovir was significantly increased from the microemulsion formula-
tion compared with commercial cream [83].
4.2. Topical
Low-surfactant microemulsion gels were formulated and character-
ized to enhance topical delivery of poorly soluble drugs. It was found
that the choice of viscosity imparting agent (Xanthan gum or Carbopol
934) played an important role in governing drug release from micro-
emulsion gels [84]. Ketoconazole loaded microemulsion for percutane-
ous absorption showed a good stability for a period of three months. It
was found that the percutaneous absorption of ketoconazole depends
on microemulsion composition. Histopathological investigation of rat
skin revealed the safety of microemulsion formulations for topical use
[85]. A novel dithranol-containing phospholipid microemulsion system
was developed and characterized for enhanced skin permeation and re-
tention. The results propose that the developed microemulsion systems
have a promising potential to improve topical delivery of dithranol [86].
Oxymatrine (OMT), a water-soluble drug, has a very low oral bioavail-
ability. Formulated oxymatrine–phospholipid complex (OMT–PLC) can
improve the lipid solubility and effectiveness of OMT. A combination of
a microemulsion and an OMT–PLC represents an effective vehicle for
topical delivery of OMT [87]. Due to its poor oral bioavailability, a topical
drug delivery system of griseofulvin (GF) is needed. A griseofulvin load-
ed into solid lipid nanoparticles was prepared using a simple micro-
emulsion technique. The GF release was to be a prolong release of
63.53% within 12 h [88]. Microemulsions incorporated into l% carbopol
974P gel base containing terbinafine hydrochloride were formulated
and evaluated for topical delivery. The release controlling ability of
microemulsion containing gel formulations was significantly improved
in comparison to commercial cream [89]. A topical preparation con-
taining aceclofenac was developed using an oil-in-water microemulsion
system. In vitro permeability of aceclofenac from the microemulsions
was evaluated. The results indicate that the microemulsion system
310 M. Fanun / Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science 17 (2012) 306–313
studied is a promising tool for percutaneous delivery of aceclofenac [90].
Lecithinsed microemulsions were prepared and evaluated as topical de-
livery vehicles of tretinoin [91]. The addition of colloidal silica in micro-
emulsions simultaneously loaded with vitamins C and E enhanced skin
bioavailability of vitamins by its dual influence on delivery charac-
teristics of microemulsions as well as on skin properties [92]. A
three-compartment (donor, skin, and receiver) mass balance model was
introduced to describe the effect of surfactant content on lecithin-linker
microemulsion-mediated topical transport. The model was used to fit
the permeation profile of lidocaine formulated in different microemulsion
types. It was demonstrated that surfactant concentration has a fairly small
effect on the mass transfer coefficients, suggesting that permeation en-
hancement via disruption of the structure of the skin is not a relevant
mechanism in these microemulsions [93]. Microemulsions containing
5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) were formulated and characterized for
topical photodynamic therapy. The microemulsion developed carried
5-ALA to the deeper skin layers [94]. Microemulsion formulation was
designed for hesperetin topical dosage form. In vivo study revealed that
the hesperetin-loaded microemulsion showed considerable topi-
cal whitening effect and reduced skin irritation when compared
with the non-treatment group [95]. Microemulsions containing
mono-diglycerides were found to be an efficient and safe system
to increase lycopene delivery to the skin and the antioxidant activ-
ity in the tissue [96]. The in vitro release of valdecoxib incorporat-
ed in microemulsion based emulgel formulations was increased as
the proportion of the surfactant (tween-80) increased. Maximum
amount of valdecoxib gets partitioned in stratum corneum with
the highest amount of tween-80 [97]. Dexamethasone microemulsion
systems were investigated as potential drug delivery vehicles. The per-
meation data demonstrated that microemulsion formulations enhanced
dexamethasone flux 200–400 fold over the control, but permeability co-
efficients were reduced by 4 times. The superior transdermal flux of
dexamethasone was due to 1000-fold improvement in the solubilization
of dexamethasone by microemulsions using lecithin [98]. Water-in-oil
microemulsion as a carrier significantly increased the intradermal deliv-
ery of quercetin where it exerts antioxidative effects [99]. Micro-
emulsions were formulated using 1-decanol, oleic acid or oleyl alcohol
as oils to verify the effect of the oils on pig-skin permeation and accumu-
lation of acyclovir (ACV). The presence of oleyl alcohol or oleic acid in-
creased the flux but not the drug skin accumulation compared to a
control suspension. A two-fold increase in ACV accumulation was found
using the microemulsions containing 1-decanol, maintaining intact the
structure of the stratum contemn [100,101]. Microemulsions incorporat-
ing both lipophilic (vitamin E) and hydrophilic (vitamin C) antioxidants
were formulated for skin protection against free radical damage. The ab-
sorption of vitamins C and E in reconstructed human epidermis (RHE)
layers was in general enhanced by microemulsions compared to solu-
tions. By varying the composition of microemulsions, RHE absorption of
the two vitamins can be considerably adjusted [102]. Microemulsion sys-
tems were examined as possible carriers for enhanced skin bioavailability
of cyclosporin A (CysA). In rat dermal applied with the bicontinuous
microemulsion containing CysA, the deposition of the drug into the skin
and subcutaneous fat was respectively almost 30 and 15-fold higher
than the concentrations compared with oral administration. Systemic dis-
tribution in the blood, liver and kidney was much lower following topical
administration than that following oral administration Topical delivery of
CysA is of immense concern for the cure of autoimmune skin disorders.
With elevated local concentrations and least distribution to other organs
via the distribution, topical microemulsion vehicle loaded with CysA
might deliver maximal therapeutic effect to the local tissue while
avoiding side effects seen with systemic therapy [103]. Topical micro-
emulsion of capsaicin without surfactant was developed. In the system
composed of water, benzyl alcohol and propylene glycol, the perme-
ation rate increased with the enhancement of benzyl alcohol and
water. But water content had little effect on the permeation rate in
the microemulsions with ethanol as cosurfactant [104].
4.3. Oral
More than forty percent of new chemical entities exhibit poor
aqueous solubility, resulting in unsatisfactory oral drug delivery.
Microemulsion can significantly improve the oral bioavailability of
hydrophobic drugs [1,2]. Double microemulsions (O/W/O) were
prepared to enhance the bioavailability of erythromycin base
when administered orally in rainbow trout. The results proved that
the feeds containing microemulsified erythromycin provided largely
superior oral bioavailability and the advantage of obtaining the
same efficacy against bacterial infections with a much lower dose
of drug compared to oral administration of feed with erythromycin
powder [105]. Therapeutic peptides are highly effective and specific
in their functions, but difficulties in their oral intake require parallel
development of practical delivery systems. In order to improve the
oral bioavailability of salmon calcitonin it was encapsulated in
water-in-oil microemulsions prepared from medium chain triglyc-
eride, tween 80 and span 80 or soybean phosphatidylcholine,
propylene glycol and phosphate saline with the addition of the poly-
mers such as hydroxypropylmethylcellulose and carbomer into the
aqueous phase. The optimized microemulsions were shown to
cause up to a 4-fold enhancement of relative pharmacological activ-
ity of salmon calcitonin with regard to the control solution of the
drug [106]. Oral bioavailability of sirolimus was improved using
self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems. The effect of the
amount of oil and surfactant on the transport of sirolimus was inves-
tigated and it was found that more oil content presented higher
lymphatic transport, while more surfactant content increased the
intestinal absorption of the drug [107]. Curcumin was solubilized
in fine oil-in-water microemulsions that were rapidly formulated
via self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems in liquid and pellet
forms. These systems result in improved solubility, dissolution, and
in vivo oral absorption of the poorly water-soluble compound.
These studies revealed that the new self-microemulsifying systems
in liquid and pellet forms are promising strategies for the formula-
tion of poorly soluble lipophilic compounds with low oral bioavail-
ability [108]. Insulin loaded microemulsions were developed
adopting a low shear reverse micellar approach as a potential carri-
er for oral delivery [109]. A microemulsion system of docetaxel
was formulated and assessed for its solubilization capacity and
oral bioavailability enhancement [110]. Cremophor-free oral micro-
emulsions of paclitaxel (PAC) were developed to enhance its
permeability and oral absorption. The developed microemulsion
systems increased both the permeability and area under the curve
of PAC as compared to cremophor [111]. A novel water-in-oil (W/
O) microemulsion was formulated for the oral delivery of hydro-
philic protein drug using the earthworm fibrinolytic enzyme
(EFE-d, Mw 24177) as a model protein drug. This study shows
that the W/O microemulsion may represent an effective oral deliv-
ery system for hydrophilic bioactive macromolecules [112]. The
oral bioavailability of earthworm fibrinolytic enzyme (EFE-d)
used for the management of cardiovascular diseases from micro-
emulsions was 208-fold higher than that of control solution and
the absolute bioavailability was 17.55%. No tissue damage of the
intestinal mucosa found after oral multiple-dose administration
of the EFE-d microemulsion to rats [113]. Self-microemulsifying
drug delivery system was formulated for improving oral absorp-
tion of poorly water-soluble drug, silymarin [114], and daidzein
[115]. The dissolution rate of daidzein from the formulated sys-
tems was considerably higher than the conventional tablet. Rela-
tive bioavailability of the drug loaded system was increased to
about 2.5-fold compared with that of the control group [115]. Another
self-microemulsifying drug delivery system was suggested as a promis-
ing drug delivery system to increase the oral bioavailability and anti-
tumor effects of 9-Nitrocamptothecin and represents a novel therapy
for cancer patients [116].
 M. Fanun / Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science 17 (2012) 306–313
4.4. Nasal
Topical microemulsions can be a useful option to reduce nasal mu-
cosal exposure to allergen in perennial allergic rhinitis [117]. The bio-
availability of insulin lispro via the nasal route using a water-in-oil
microemulsion was found to reach 21.5% relative to subcutaneous ad-
ministration, whereas the use of an inverse microemulsion as well as
a plain solution yielded less than 1% bioavailability in rabbits. It has
been concluded that the speeding up in the intramucosal transport
process is the result of encapsulating insulin within the nano-droplet
clusters of a water-in-oil microemulsion, while the microemulsion com-
ponents seem to have no direct role. [118]. Intranasal oil‐in-water micro-
emulsion of zonisamide with labrasol as surfactant and transcutol as
cosurfactant was developed for direct brain drug delivery. In vitro drug
diffusion studies of developed microemulsions based formulation were
carried out through sheep nasal mucosa using Franz diffusion cell. The ef-
fects of mucoadhesive agent and different penetration enhancers were
also evaluated in the diffusion studies. In vitro drug diffusion study re-
vealed that the microemulsions have significantly increased the drug
diffusion across the nasal mucosa [119]. Fexofenadine loaded micro-
emulsion system was developed for intranasal delivery. These sys-
tems were suggested as an effective intranasal dosage form for
the rapid-onset delivery of fexofenadine [120]. Sertraline hydro-
chloride (STH) was solubilized in microemulsions by titration method
and assessed. In vitro studies for nasal absorption were carried out on
goat nasal mucosa. The results show that intranasal microemulsion of
STH could be useful for the treatment of depression [121]. A micro-
emulsion system for intranasal delivery of lorazepam was developed.
In vivo absorption studies showed that intranasal absorption of loraze-
pam from microemulsions was enhanced as compared to the intramus-
cular injection [122].
4.5. Ocular
The most common approach for administering ophthalmic drugs
is the ocular drug delivery. Microemulsions are particularly attractive
for delivering hydrophobic drugs to the cornea because of the possi-
bility of loading the drugs in the oil particle [123]. Prednisolone solu-
tions were prepared in self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems.
The physical properties of the formulations were observed and the
chemical potency of the drug was determined using a stability indi-
cating HPLC method. It was found that water-in-oil microemulsions
can protect prednisolone from degradation by gamma ionizing radiation
[124]. Nanostructured poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (p-HEMA)
hydrogels containing microemulsions or micelles of Brij 97 were devel-
oped for extended delivery of Cyclosporine A (CyA), an immunosuppres-
sant drug that is used for treating a variety of ocular diseases and
disorders. Results show that the surfactant and microemulsion-laden
gels can deliver CyA at therapeutic dosages for a period of about
20 days [125].
4.6. Parenteral
Microemulsions have evolved as a novel vehicle for parenteral de-
livery of the hydrophobic drugs [126]. Phospholipid-based micro-
emulsions were formulated and examined for parenteral delivery of
anticancer drug, etoposide. To evaluate the safety of the formulations
for parenteral delivery, it was subjected to compatibility studies with
various intravenous infusions and in vitro erythrocyte toxicity study.
The developed formulation was found to be robust and safe [127].
Lorazepam (LZM) microemulsions were developed as a substitute to
the conventional cosolvent based formulation. The LZM microemulsions
were assessed for compatibility with parenteral fluids, globule size, in
vitro hemolysis and stability of LZM. The LZM microemulsions containing
amino acids exhibited good physical and chemical stability when sub-
jected to refrigeration for 6 months [128]. Blank and β-elemene-loaded
311
microemulsions were prepared and characterized using transmission
electron microscopy, conductivity and viscosity. The loading capacity
test, dilutability test, and the influence of antioxidants were conducted
for further optimization of β-elemene-loaded microemulsion. The in
vitro release study showed that β-elemene was progressively released
until 12 h, which most fitted the first order [129]. Microemulsion formu-
lations were formulated as alternative carrier for intravenous delivery of
docetaxel. The solubility of the drug docetaxel was enhanced and the
loaded microemulsions were methodically assessed in vitro and in vivo
[130].
4.7. Others
Microemulsions were compared with other adjuvants evaluated and
were found to be the best candidate for rabies immunization as they
presented good potency against the virus and did not appear to cause
any local reaction [131]. Microemulsions were discussed with their
merits and demerits as non vesicular form of delivery systems of artificial
blood substitutes [132]. Bee propolis ethanolic extract was incorporated
in microemulsions to be applied as a pressurized aerosol [133].
5. Conclusions
The following important points could be summarized from the
reviewed studies:
a. Microemulsions enhance the solubilization capacity and dissolu-
tion efficiency of poorly soluble drugs.
b. Drug solubilization capacity and dissolution efficiency are reliant
on the microstructure of the microemulsions.
c. Solubilized drugs may influence the boundaries of structural re-
gions and the transition point between different microemulsion
microstructures.
d. Drug extent and route of delivery could be influenced by the mi-
crostructure of the microemulsions.
e. Drug delivery systems generated in microemulsions improved
drug release and compatibility.
f. The extent and rate of drug delivery are dependent on the gener-
ated system preparation method in microemulsions.
g. The generated system could influence the selection of a delivery
route.
h. In all routes of delivery, the microemulsion type and microstruc-
ture affects the extent and rate of drug delivery.
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