Comprehensive review of ointment bases: types, properties, and applications

Aim. This article aims to comprehensively review and analyze various types of ointment bases, examining their physicochemical properties, advantages, and disadvantages. This review also seeks to explore the potential use of specific excipients in developing ointment bases with enhanced therapeutic properties and increased bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients. Methods. A broad search and study of existing literature on ointment bases, focusing on their classifications, properties, and applications. A comparative analysis of the two main classifications of ointment bases based on interaction with water (water-emulsion, hydrophobic, hydrophilic) and physicochemical properties (oleaginous, absorption, water-removable, water-soluble). Analysis of realworld examples to highlight the practical implications of selecting or developing appropriate ointment bases. Results. The differences, advantages, and limitations of each ointment's classification approach were highlighted. Detailed examination of the physicochemical properties of various ointment bases, such as consistency, stability, pH, and their impact on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters was made. An assessment of how these properties influence the therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) was performed. Recommendations for future research and development based on the findings of the review were proposed. Conclusions. This review examines various types of ointment bases, focusing on their physicochemical properties, advantages, and disadvantages while also exploring the potential use of specific excipients to enhance the therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Understanding and selecting the appropriate ointment base is crucial for optimizing the therapeutic properties of medicinal products, and ongoing research in this area is essential for advancing pharmaceutical formulations.