Innovations in Nanoemulsion Technology: Enhancing Drug Delivery for Oral, Parenteral, and Ophthalmic Applications

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Nanotechnology
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Nanoemulsions (NEs) are submicron biphasic liquid systems (20-500 nm) stabilized by surfactants.
• They exhibit high surface area, small droplet size, enhanced bioavailability, and good stability.
• NEs are suitable for encapsulating diverse active substances for various delivery routes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements, prospects, and challenges in nanoemulsion technology.
• To focus on NE applications in oral, parenteral, and ophthalmic drug delivery.
• To summarize characterization techniques, preparation methods, and formulation considerations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent advancements, clinical trials, and patents.
• Summary of in vitro and in vivo nanoemulsion characterization techniques.
• Description of high-energy and low-energy preparation methods and formulation strategies.

Main Results:

• Nanoemulsions demonstrate significant potential for improving drug delivery across multiple routes.
• Recent clinical trials and patents highlight the growing interest and application of NEs.
• Key formulation considerations and excipients for oral, ocular, and ophthalmic delivery are presented.

Conclusions:

• Nanoemulsions are versatile systems with unique properties ideal for drug encapsulation and delivery.
• Further research into functional excipients is crucial for enhancing the delivery of challenging molecules like proteins and oligonucleotides.
• Advancements in nanoemulsion technology promise rapid progress in drug delivery systems.