Recent Progress in Poly (Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid)-Based Biodegradable Drug Delivery Carriers for Pain Management

Abstract

Pain, a prevalent clinical symptom, significantly demands attention in the current public health system due to its profound impact on patients’ quality of life, daily activities, and economic circumstances. Despite being a pervasive issue, many forms of pain remain ineffectively addressed, hence posing an enormous burden on patients. Pharmaceutical treatments, the first-line approach for various forms of pain, continue to face considerable challenges due to their limited efficacy, lack of long-lasting effects, and adverse side effects. In recent years, the rapid advancements in science and technology, especially the incorporation of micro and nano technologies across various domains, have accelerated the development of novel therapeutics. This review underscores the merits and drawbacks of different pharmacological strategies for pain management. It focuses on the research progress and applications of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA) as drug delivery carriers, elucidating their potential therapeutic influence over pain management. The review concludes with a thorough summary of current research outcomes and limitations, a discussion of potential clinical transformations, and projections for future pain management research and effective care strategies.