Microsphere A Novel Drug Delivery System – A Review

Abstract

The microspheres are also called as micro-particles. Microspheres are characteristically spherical & free flowing powders having particle size ranging from 1-1000μm consisting of proteins or synthetic polymers. Microsphere can be manufactured by various type of material such as glass, polymers, and ceramic microspheres Microspheres are used in drug delivery systems to overcome some of the problems of conventional therapy and enhance the therapeutic efficacy of a given drug they are designed. These delivery systems offer numerous advantages compared to conventional dosage forms, which include improved efficacy, reduced toxicity, improved patient compliance and convenience. At the target tissue the drug should deliver in an optimal amount in the right period of time with the minimum side effect & maximum therapeutic effect, to get the desired effect. The microspheres received much attention not only for the prolonged release or controlled drug delivery to improve bioavailability, stability and action at the specific site to predetermined rate but also for targeting of the anticancer drugs to the tumour. Microspheres are various types like Bioadhesive microspheres, Magnetic microspheres, Floating microspheres, radioactive microspheres, Polymeric microspheres, Biodegradable polymeric microspheres, Synthetic polymeric microspheres. The microsphere are spherical microparticles & are used where predictable & consistent particle surface area is important. The microspheres has the drug located centrally within the particle where it is encased within the unique polymeric membrane. This review focuses on types, materials used, drawbacks, advantage & disadvantage.