Volume : 13, Issue : 05, May – 2026
Title:
TOPICAL GELS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF INFLAMMATION: RECENT ADVANCES AND PHARMACEUTICAL APPLICATIONS
Authors :
Devanshu Dhondi*, Dr. Mamta Yadav
Abstract :
Inflammation is a complex biological response of the body against harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, toxic compounds, and physical injury. It plays a significant role in protecting tissues and restoring homeostasis; however, prolonged or uncontrolled inflammation may lead to chronic inflammatory disorders and tissue damage. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are closely associated with inflammatory processes and contribute to the progression of various diseases through oxidative stress and activation of inflammatory mediators. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids are commonly used to manage inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory pathways and mediators such as cyclooxygenase enzymes and prostaglandins. Despite their therapeutic effectiveness, conventional oral administration of anti-inflammatory drugs is often associated with gastrointestinal irritation, hepatic toxicity, renal complications, and poor patient compliance.Topical drug delivery systems, particularly gels, have gained considerable attention as an alternative approach for localized treatment of inflammation due to their ease of application, improved patient compliance, controlled drug release, and reduced systemic side effects. Gels are semisolid preparations that provide better drug penetration and prolonged residence time at the site of application. Various types of gels, including hydrogels, organogels, and xerogels, are widely utilized in pharmaceutical formulations. The incorporation of penetration enhancers and suitable polymers further improves drug permeation through the skin barrier. This review article highlights the pathophysiology and mechanism of inflammation, the role of ROS in inflammatory responses, classification and mechanism of action of NSAIDs, adverse effects associated with anti-inflammatory therapy, and the importance of topical gel formulations in inflammation management. Additionally, the article discusses formulation components, classification of gels, evaluation parameters, and therapeutic applications of topical gels in pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields.
Keywords: Inflammation, Reactive oxygen species, NSAIDs, Cyclooxygenase, Topical gel, Anti-inflammatory drugs.
Cite This Article:
Please cite this article in press Devanshu Dhondi et al., Topical Gels In The Management Of Inflammation: Recent Advances And Pharmaceutical Applications.., Indo Am. J. P. Sci, 2026; 13(05).
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