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Chitosan: a propitious biopolymer for drug delivery
Dibyangana S Duttagupta1, Varsha M Jadhav, Vilasrao J Kadam
1University of Mumbai, Bharati Vidyapeeth's College of Pharmacy, Department of Quality Assurance, CBD Belapur, Sector-8, Navi-Mumbai-400614, India. dibyangana02@gmail.com.
Current Drug Delivery
|March 12, 2015
Summary
Chitosan, a natural polymer derived from chitin, offers unique properties for advanced drug delivery systems. Its biocompatibility and versatility enable diverse applications, including targeted therapies and enhanced drug release.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
Background:
- Chitosan, a cationic polysaccharide derived from chitin, is abundant and possesses unique properties.
- Its cationic nature distinguishes it from other natural polymers, enabling specific interactions.
- Chitosan is recognized for its non-toxic, biocompatible, and biodegradable characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review various chitosan-based formulations for drug delivery.
- To explore current applications of chitosan in diverse delivery routes.
- To discuss chitosan's potential in active targeting and safety aspects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of chitosan-based drug delivery systems.
- Analysis of chitosan's physicochemical properties relevant to drug delivery.
- Compilation of current and emerging applications across various administration routes.
Main Results:
- Chitosan exhibits mucoadhesive, permeation-enhancing, and controlled-release properties.
- Applications span ophthalmic, nasal, buccal, sublingual, gastro-retentive, pulmonary, transdermal, colon-specific, and vaginal delivery.
- Chitosan facilitates active targeting of drugs to tumor cells.
Conclusions:
- Chitosan is a versatile biomaterial for developing novel drug delivery systems.
- Its unique properties support diverse therapeutic applications and targeted drug delivery.
- Further research into chitosan-based systems is warranted, considering its safety profile.
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