Microsponges as Drug Delivery System: Past, Present, and Future Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Microsponges are porous polymeric microspheres (5-300 micrometers) utilized in various biomedical applications.
• Existing applications include targeted drug delivery, transdermal systems, anticancer therapies, and bone regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively analyze recent advancements and future prospects of microsponge-based drug delivery systems.
• To systematically evaluate the therapeutic potential and patent landscape of microsponge formulations.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of microsponge fabrication techniques including polymerization, solvent diffusion, lyophilization, and aerosol generation.
• Review of methods like ultrasound-assisted microsponge formation.

Main Results:

• Microsponges can improve drug stability and alter release profiles, potentially reducing side effects.
• Both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs can be encapsulated for targeted delivery.
• Microsponge technology presents significant advantages over conventional drug delivery methods.

Conclusions:

• Microsponge delivery systems offer enhanced drug stability and targeted delivery capabilities.
• Their porous, spherical structure facilitates controlled release and minimizes adverse effects.
• Further exploration of microsponge technology promises significant therapeutic benefits.