Development of Ketoconazole Shampoo with Dipterocarpus alatus Oil as a Permeation Enhancer

Purpose: To develop and evaluate a model ketoconazole shampoo that includes Dipterocarpus alatus oil as a natural permeation enhancer. Methods: Model shampoos containing ketoconazole, D. alatus oil (1-3% v/v), sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, lanolin, cocamidopropyl betaine and fragrance were formulated and evaluated for pH, viscosity and appearance. Ketoconazole content was determined by UV spectrophotometry for preliminary stability testing, drug release and permeation studies. A side-by-side diffusion cell incorporating porcine abdominal membrane was used to evaluate ketoconazole permeation. Results: All of the model ketoconazole shampoo formulations had a satisfactory appearance, pH and viscosity. The inclusion of 2% D. alatus oil in the formulation enhanced the permeation of ketoconazole through porcine abdominal membrane. Conclusion: Our model ketoconazole shampoo formulation incorporating D. alatus oil showed enhanced permeation of ketoconazole in vitro. This method can be simply adapted to study other permeation enhancers and other formulations.