"Nano-Paclitaxel" Unlocking Potential and Redefining Cancer Chemotherapy

Paclitaxel (PTX) has emerged as one of the first-line drug candidates in cancer therapy due to its potency and profound anticancer potential. Derived from a rich natural source, it stands out as a beacon of hope in the battle against various forms of cancer, such as breast, lung, ovarian, head, and neck tumors. PTX presents significant challenges in its pharmaceutical application, including low aqueous solubility (10-20 mg/L), limited oral bioavailability (approximately 10%), and nonlinear pharmacokinetics, particularly with short infusion times. Furthermore, its highly lipophilic nature necessitates formulation in the challenging vehicle Cremophor EL, contributing to hypersensitivity reactions and hyperlipidemia. The primary concerns in PTX delivery encompass its availability and the incidence of adverse drug events, emphasizing the critical necessity of innovative drug delivery strategies. Nanoformulations of PTX herald a new dawn in cancer treatment, leaving behind harmful vehicles and offering targeted delivery of the drug. Numerous nanoformulations have been proposed, such as nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, nanoemulsions, and others. These ground-breaking formulations not only mitigate organ toxicities and hypersensitivity reactions but also pave the way for a regime of lower risk, fueling hope in the fight against cancer. This review article is evidence of the enduring legacy of PTX, offering profound insights into its journey from discovery to the present day and chronicling the remarkable advancements and progress in its nanocarrier-mediated delivery.