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Solvent-exchange-based in situ forming implants: advances and challenges as long-lasting formulations
Irene Lozza1, Ana Isabel Fraguas-Sánchez1,2, Cristina Martín-Sabroso1,2
1Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery
|September 23, 2025
Summary
Solvent-based in situ forming implants (ISFIs) offer convenient, long-acting drug delivery. Advances in formulation, particularly with DMSO and PEGylated ISFIs, improve drug release control for various therapeutic applications.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- In situ forming implants (ISFIs) are injectable drug delivery systems that solidify post-injection, forming a depot for sustained release.
- Solvent-based ISFIs are the most studied type, offering advantages in administration and manufacturing over preformed implants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in solvent-based in situ forming implants (ISFIs).
- To highlight formulation strategies and therapeutic applications at preclinical and clinical levels.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of PubMed and Web of Science databases.
- Consultation of EMA and FDA databases for approved formulations and applications.
Main Results:
- Solvent-based ISFIs are crucial for long-acting treatments, particularly in mental health and substance use disorders.
- Approved applications include periodontitis, with potential in ocular diseases and osteoarthritis.
- Newer DMSO and PEGylated-based ISFIs show improved drug release control compared to traditional PLGA/PLA in NMP formulations.
Conclusions:
- Solvent-based ISFIs are a vital technology for sustained drug delivery, reducing patient compliance issues.
- Formulation innovations, especially those reducing initial burst release, are key to expanding ISFI applications.
- Emerging ISFI technologies promise enhanced therapeutic outcomes across diverse medical fields.
