Smart Nanocarriers for Nail Fungal Infections: A Review on Efinaconazole Proposomal Gel in Onychomycosis Therapy

Nitika Kumari

Abstract: Onychomycosis, a prevalent nail fungal infection caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and non-dermatophyte molds, remains a therapeutic challenge due to the poor permeability of drugs across the dense keratinized nail plate. Efinaconazole, a triazole antifungal, has shown promise due to its broad-spectrum activity and low keratin affinity. However, its therapeutic effectiveness is limited by suboptimal nail penetration when used in conventional formulations. Proposomes lipid-based nanocarriers stabilized by propylene glycol offer enhanced drug solubility, stability, and transungual delivery. This review explores the potential of efinaconazole-loaded proposomal gel as a novel, patient-compliant, and efficacious topical system for treating onychomycosis. The article summarizes current trends, formulation strategies, characterization techniques, and the mechanism by which proposomal carriers enhance drug permeation. Future directions in clinical translation and optimization are also discussed.

Keywords: Onychomycosis, Efinaconazole, Proposomes, Transungual delivery, Antifungal gel, Nanocarriers, Nail penetration

How to Cite?: Nitika Kumari, "Smart Nanocarriers for Nail Fungal Infections: A Review on Efinaconazole Proposomal Gel in Onychomycosis Therapy", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 442-446, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251205114849, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251205114849