Generally o/w emulsions are used for oral administration of drugs or substance because oil is more readily absorbed in a fine state of subdivision through the gastro intestinal tract and secondly the preparation becomes more palatable when water forms the continuous phase.
From manufacturing point of view, oil is enveloped in a thin film of emulgent, which masks the bitter and oily taste of the drug like liquid paraffin. Orally, emulsions are also used to enhance the absorption of the oil soluble drugs like vitamins A,D, E and K.
Method of Preparation:
Triturate the weighed quantity of liquid paraffin and chloroform with methyl cellulose in mortar and pestle, creamy emulsion is formed. Add and mix other additives and add sufficient purified water with continuous stirring.
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Uses:
Laxative and acts as an emollient purgative in chronic constipation especially during pregnancy and geriatric patient.
Example: Castor oil Emulsion
Castor oil 16 ml
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Gum acacia q.s
Water 80 ml
Method of Preparation:
Triturate the weighed quantity of castor oil and cinnamon water with gum acacia in mortar and pestle. Add remaining quantity of cinnamon water and mix properly.
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Use: Purgative
Example 3: Cod-Liver oil Emulsion
Rx
Cod-liver oil 50 ml
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Acacia powder
Method of Preparation:
Mix two gums and prepare the primary emulsion by the dry gum method and add cod-liver oil. Add and mix other additives with constant stirring and make up the volume.
Uses:
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Source of vitamin A and D. It is used as dietary supplement in infants and children to prevent the occurance of rickets and to improve nutrition in undernourished children and patients with rickets.