Lipid particulate drug delivery systems: a review

Abstract

The objective of this review is to elaborate lipid particulate drug delivery systems (LPDDSs), their applications, formulation methods, advantages and disadvantages, and perform an inclusive comparison of various types of LPDDSs. The use of LPDDSs enhances the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs and addresses the issue of their solubility and achieves targeted controlled drug release. These delivery systems provide a vast range of products that are administered through various routes such as oral, parenteral, topical and nasal. These reduce the toxicity and side effects of drugs by altering their biodistribution. LPDDSs have a greater carrier capacity for drugs and high stability and are also proposed for modified release of drugs from matrices. These consist of different structural and functional properties that allow them to produce the desired outcomes by changing the composition of additives and lipid excipients. Throughout the years, micron- and nanometer-sized LPDDSs have been developed which promote the efficacy of drugs and their therapeutic application. For proficient delivery of poorly soluble drugs, solid lipid nanoparticles are extensively used.