Solid lipid microparticles as an approach to drug delivery

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Nanotechnology
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Lipid microparticles (LMs) emerged in the 1990s as an alternative to existing drug carriers like emulsions and liposomes.
• Despite advantages such as biocompatibility, ease of production, and extended release, LMs have received less attention than lipid nanoparticles.
• Key formulation components, including lipids and surfactants, significantly influence LM properties and performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of lipid microparticles (LMs) as drug delivery systems.
• To analyze the advantages and disadvantages of LMs, focusing on excipient roles and formulation characteristics.
• To update on preparation techniques, characterization methods, biological interactions, and administration routes, including novel applications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of lipid microparticle (LM) research.
• Analysis of excipient effects (lipids, surfactants) on LM properties.
• Examination of preparation techniques, characterization, biological interactions, and administration routes.

Main Results:

• Lipid microparticles (LMs) exhibit distinct advantages including biocompatibility, ease of production, and controlled release capabilities.
• The choice of lipids and surfactants critically impacts LM characteristics and drug loading efficiency.
• Recent advancements in preparation and characterization methods are enhancing LM development.

Conclusions:

• Lipid microparticles (LMs) are versatile carriers with significant pharmaceutical potential.
• Current pharmaceutical applications of LMs remain limited.
• Investigating novel administration routes, particularly pulmonary delivery, could unlock new clinical and industrial opportunities for LMs.