Bigels as Novel Drug Delivery Systems: A Systematic Review on Efficiency and Influential Factors

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Bigels are innovative formulations combining hydrogel and organogel phases.
• This dual nature allows for controlled release of both hydrophilic and lipophilic active agents.
• They offer unique physicochemical and rheological properties for diverse applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and evaluate the efficiency of bigels in drug release applications.
• To identify common materials and influential factors in bigel formulation and drug release.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science.
• Twenty articles meeting predefined criteria were included for analysis.
• Data on bigel composition, drug release, and influential factors were extracted and synthesized.

Main Results:

• Natural materials like Span and sunflower oil were frequently used for organogel components, while biopolymers such as gelatin and agar formed the hydrogel phase.
• Metronidazole was the most studied drug released from bigels.
• Drug release rates varied widely, with over 90% release achieved in 42.85% of the reviewed studies.
• Key factors influencing bigel formation and drug release included the properties of both gel phases and process variables like temperature and mixing speed.

Conclusions:

• Bigels represent a promising platform for drug delivery, offering tunable properties for controlled release.
• Their excellent biocompatibility and demonstrated in vitro/ex vivo efficacy support their industrial and therapeutic potential.
• Optimizing bigel preparation methods is crucial for maximizing therapeutic effects and ensuring consistent performance.