Recent Advances in Drug Delivery and Formulation - Volume 20, Issue 1, 2026

This study explores the emerging potential of non-aqueous gels for topical therapy, examining their unique properties, diverse applications, and the challenges involved in their formulation and clinical use. By highlighting these aspects, the article aims to shed light on the future of localized drug delivery and inspire further research and innovation in this promising field. Additionally, the article addresses the critical need for regulatory considerations, stability testing, and patient acceptability. It also emphasizes the role of non-aqueous gels in revolutionizing dermatological and transdermal therapies, particularly by enhancing the stability of drugs that are hydrolyzed in the presence of water.

Modern technologies such as nanotechnology are being applied in almost every sector to deliver affordable, environmentally friendly products. The integration of nanotechnology in medicine has revolutionized drug delivery systems, with nanotechnology emerging as a promising frontier. This review explores the synthesis and characterization of nanotablet drug formulations designed to enhance their potential across various applications. By employing characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and physisorption analysis, researchers have developed innovative drug delivery systems like Sophora Alopecuroides nanotablets to treat deadly diseases such as cancer. Evaluation of pre- and post-compression results indicated that nanotablets exhibited good hardness and flow properties, making these formulations potential drug delivery systems for enhanced bioavailability and sustained release properties. Specifically, sublingual sufentanil nanotablets, such as Zalviso^®, have demonstrated efficacy in managing moderate to severe pain in healthcare settings when used in conjunction with a PCA device. However, recent regulatory updates indicate changes in the marketing authorization status of Zalviso^®. In conclusion, this novel approach for synthesizing nanotablets presents a promising avenue for diverse applications, and based on the results, it is worth considering for future work.

The cosmetics business is a valuable and stable multibillion-dollar business that keeps growing yearly with new, specialized goods. Natural goods contain a wealth of medicinally active chemicals used to treat a wide range of skin problems, including infections, inflammation, and damage caused by UV light and pollution. Cosmeceuticals are a mix of cosmetic and medical chemicals. Based on their main ingredients, they can be used for both beauty and health purposes. Many people think that natural goods are a great way to obtain cosmeceuticals. It has strong anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and protective properties. The benefit for the skin has been said to be the most interesting. GA and its products have been used a lot as an adjuvant in many therapeutic formulations, as an alternative to hydro-cortisone in children with atopic dermatitis and other skin diseases, and as an ingredient in cosmetics because they are good for humans. GA is GRAS (generally recognized as safe) by the US Food and Drug Administration. Oxidative stress, which happens when too many free radicals build up, is the main cause of many skin diseases that get worse over time, like aging. Polyphenols, including gallic acid, represent a significant category of naturally occurring antioxidants. They have emerged as potent antioxidants suitable for incorporation into active makeup products. Recent advancements include patent filings related to novel applications and formulations of Gallic acid in cosmetic science that highlight innovative delivery systems, such as nano-formulations enhancing stability and efficacy, as well as its synergistic combinations with other active ingredients to address targeted skin concerns like pigmentation, aging, and sensitivity which meets the demands of modern consumers.

Gastroretentive drug delivery systems (GRDDS) have emerged as a focal point of research and development, attracting substantial attention due to their potential to revolutionize oral drug administration. Their ability to enhance the bioavailability and therapeutic effectiveness of orally administered medications, particularly those with narrow absorption windows or susceptible to gastrointestinal degradation, has spurred considerable interest. By extending gastric residence time, GRDDS offers a pathway to optimize drug absorption while minimizing dosing frequency, thereby improving patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes. This comprehensive review delves into the diverse array of gastroretentive drug delivery approaches, providing in-depth insights into their classification, mechanisms of retention, recent innovations with patented technologies, and existing marketed formulations of the domain. Furthermore, it meticulously examines the challenges inherent in GRDDS implementation and elucidates effective strategies to surmount them. From novel formulation techniques to ingenious drug-carrier systems, this review explores the multifaceted landscape of GRDDS development, shedding light on promising avenues for future research and development. By advancing current knowledge and anticipating future trends, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and pharmaceutical professionals navigating the dynamic terrain of gastroretentive drug delivery.