Buccal drug delivery: A challenge already won?

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Buccal drug administration is hindered by the oral cavity's small absorption area and the mucosa's barrier function.
• Physiological mechanisms in the mouth can rapidly clear formulations from the desired absorption site.
• Overcoming these barriers is crucial for effective buccal drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore strategies for enhancing drug absorption through the buccal mucosa.
• To identify novel materials and drug delivery systems for improved buccal administration.
• To address the limitations of limited absorption area and mucosal barriers in buccal drug delivery.

Main Methods:

• Investigating the use of advanced materials with combined mucoadhesive, enzyme inhibitory, and penetration-enhancing properties.
• Designing innovative drug delivery systems to optimize drug contact with the buccal mucosa.
• Evaluating strategies to counteract physiological clearance mechanisms in the oral cavity.

Main Results:

• New materials show potential for improved mucoadhesion and enhanced drug permeation.
• Innovative delivery systems facilitate prolonged contact between the drug and the absorption site.
• Strategies effectively address limitations posed by mucosal barriers and clearance.

Conclusions:

• Employing mucoadhesive, enzyme inhibitory, and penetration-enhancing materials can overcome buccal absorption obstacles.
• Innovative drug delivery systems improve patient compliance and drug-mucosa contact.
• Advanced strategies offer promising solutions for effective buccal drug delivery.