Enhancing Drug Efficacy: A Review of Research Progress in Drug-Loaded Microspheres

The efficacy of drugs is intrinsically linked to their performance characteristics. For instance, natural plant extracts, being endogenous chemical constituents of plants, exhibit limited bioavailability and biological activity due to their poor water solubility. When utilized independently, maintaining the continuity of drug action poses a challenge, and the precise targeting of action sites is arduous. This is evident in applications such as inducing osteogenesis at orthopedic surgery sites, providing anti-inflammatory treatment for localized wounds, and enhancing healing processes. With advances in material science, numerous researchers have embarked on the exploration of drug carriers. Techniques include employing microspheres for the prolonged release of drugs, utilizing membrane carriers to fabricate drug-infused dressings that aid in wound healing, and creating solid carriers to facilitate bone defect restoration. This article systematically reviews the varieties, materials, methodologies, outcomes, and advancements in the research of drug-loaded microspheres, offering a foundation for future drug carrier studies. However, it does not offer empirical data support for the selection of clinical drug carriers.