Recent Advances in Drug Delivery and Formulation - Online First
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Advancements in Transdermal Drug Delivery: Nanoemulgels, Essential Oils, and Innovations in Colchicine Delivery for Improved Anti-Inflammatory Effects and Permeability Enhancement
Authors: Iram Jahan, Atul Pratap Singh and Gaurav2Available online: 16 September 2025More LessIntroductionTransdermal drug delivery (TDD) systems offer a patient-friendly alternative to oral and injectable routes by enhancing bioavailability and bypassing hepatic first-pass metabolism. Nanoemulgels, which integrate nanoemulsions with gel matrices, provide improved drug solubilization, stability, and skin permeation. Incorporating both herbal components, such as Nigella sativa oil, and synthetic permeation enhancers, presents a synergistic strategy for enhancing the efficacy of anti-inflammatory agents like colchicine.
MethodsThis review critically evaluates the formulation, pharmacological benefits, and permeation-enhancing strategies of nanoemulgels containing colchicine. Literature was selected from major scientific databases, emphasizing studies that investigated the combined effects of herbal and synthetic excipients on drug delivery and therapeutic performance.
ResultsEvidence indicates that nanoemulgels incorporating Nigella sativa oil and pharmaceutical-grade permeation enhancers significantly improve colchicine's dermal absorption, sustain drug release, and reduce systemic toxicity. The synergistic interaction between natural bioactives and synthetic agents enhances both anti-inflammatory activity and skin permeability.
DiscussionThe dual role of Nigella sativa as an anti-inflammatory and natural permeation enhancer, when paired with synthetic excipients, demonstrates superior pharmacodynamic outcomes. This integrated approach enhances the therapeutic index of colchicine while minimizing adverse effects.
ConclusionCombining herbal oils like Nigella sativa with pharmaceutical excipients in nanoemulgel systems represents a robust strategy for transdermal delivery. This platform improves drug penetration, stabilizes formulation performance, and amplifies therapeutic efficacy, offering a transformative alternative for chronic inflammatory conditions such as gout.
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Needle-Free Future: Revolutionizing Immunization with Vaccine Creams
Authors: Dinesh Kumar, Vrinda Gupta, Rajni Tanwar and Sonia GuptaAvailable online: 29 August 2025More LessFor centuries, injections have been the primary method for vaccination; however, these traditional approaches present challenges due to pain, fear, and difficulties in administration. Scientists from Stanford University have developed vaccine creams, representing a revolutionary approach to the field of vaccination. Genetically modified Staphylococcus epidermidis forms the basis of these cream products, which support skin-based, painless vaccination without invasive procedures, while playing an essential role in the immune response. Scientists using tetanus as a test subject have obtained positive data from animal studies demonstrating effective immune responses to vaccination, indicating potential future applications for treating diseases, such as influenza, COVID-19, and cancer. Vaccination creams outperform classic injections in several ways, as they eliminate needle-related concerns while reducing adverse reactions, streamlining mass vaccination programs, and making the delivery of immunizations simpler, especially for populations that lack regular access to healthcare. Several key barriers continue to hinder the development of vaccine creams, including regulatory hurdles, stability concerns, production scalability, and public acceptance. Research discusses how vaccine creams revolutionize immunization processes by improving treatment accessibility, affordability, and broader acceptance rates.
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Polymeric Nanocarriers with pH-Dependent Release for Tumor-Specific Delivery
Authors: Chintan Aundhia, Ghanshyam Parmar, Chitrali Talele, Piyushkumar Sadhu and Avinashkumar SethAvailable online: 21 August 2025More LessThe acidic nature of tumor microenvironments presents a unique opportunity for the targeted delivery of therapeutics using pH-responsive polymeric nanocarriers. These smart nanocarriers are designed to release their payload specifically in response to the low pH found in tumor tissues, thereby enhancing drug accumulation at the tumor site while minimizing systemic side effects. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the design principles, fabrication methods, and applications of pH-responsive polymeric nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery in tumor microenvironments. Key topics include the mechanisms of pH-responsive drug release, engineering strategies for developing pH-sensitive polymers, and recent advancements in exploiting tumor acidity for improved therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, the review discusses the clinical potential and the challenges associated with the translation of these nanocarriers from bench to bedside.
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Optimized Formulation of Sulfasalazine and Probiotic-Loaded Carrageenan Microparticles Using Design of Experiments for Effective Colitis Management
Available online: 18 August 2025More LessIntroductionUlcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease marked by mucosal inflammation and epithelial barrier dysfunction. Sulfasalazine, a standard anti-inflammatory drug, and probiotics, known for gut microbiota modulation, have both shown efficacy in UC management. However, their combined delivery to the colon remains underexplored. This study aimed to develop a colon-targeted microparticulate formulation containing sulfasalazine and a probiotic strain to enhance anti-inflammatory action and therapeutic effectiveness against UC.
MethodsMicroparticles were prepared using a Design of Experiments (DoE) approach, optimizing carrageenan and calcium chloride dihydrate concentrations and stirring speed. The probiotic was co-encapsulated to maintain viability during processing. In vitro evaluations included drug release studies and Caco-2 cell line assays for epithelial integrity, ROS generation, and NF-κB expression. In vivo efficacy was assessed using an acetic acid-induced colitis model, with evaluations based on inflammation severity, tissue damage and histopathology.
ResultsOptimized microparticles ensured sustained sulfasalazine release and preserved probiotic viability. In vitro, the formulation improved epithelial barrier function, reduced ROS and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and suppressed NF-κB expression. In vivo, treated animals showed significant reduction in colitis severity, improved tissue integrity and better histopathological outcomes compared to controls.
DiscussionThe combined sulfasalazine-probiotic microparticles effectively addressed both symptomatic relief and the inflammatory cascade in UC. Probiotics enhanced gut barrier protection, while sustained sulfasalazine release ensured localized therapeutic action. The synergy between drug and probiotic delivery offers a novel approach over conventional therapies.
ConclusionThis study presents a promising colon-targeted microparticulate system combining sulfasalazine and probiotics for effective UC management. The dual-action formulation offers enhanced anti-inflammatory efficacy, reduced tissue damage, and better disease control, supporting its potential in future clinical applications.
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Nanorobots: Trailblazing the Future of Pharmaceuticals Through Targeted Therapy and Disease Monitoring
Authors: Sree Ranjani P, S Sangeetha, Suriya Prakaash K.K and N DamodharanAvailable online: 18 August 2025More LessIntroductionThis review explores the design principles, sensor mechanisms, and propulsion systems of nanorobots, highlighting their applications in targeted drug delivery, disease monitoring, and broader biomedical fields. The objective is to provide a comprehensive overview of how nanorobots transform pharmaceutical delivery systems and precision therapy.
MethodologyA structured literature search was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Keywords such as Nanorobots, Nanorobot propulsion, Biosensors, Magnetically driven nanorobots, Electric field-driven nanorobots, Biomedical applications, and Enzyme-driven nanorobots were used. Articles published between 2010 and 2024 were considered. Inclusion criteria involved peer-reviewed articles focusing on nanorobot design, propulsion systems, sensor mechanisms, and clinical applications. Non-English articles and non-peer-reviewed content were excluded.
ResultsA total of 212 relevant studies were initially identified through a comprehensive search across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 94 studies were selected for final analysis, focusing on the integration of sensors, propulsion systems, and energy sources in nanorobots.
DiscussionThe review revealed that nanorobots utilize advanced sensor systems (nanocantilevers and biosensors) for molecular recognition and site-specific targeting. These sensors detect biochemical and mechanical changes, aiding precise navigation. Powered by external forces (magnetic, electric, light, ultrasound) or internal biochemical energy (enzymatic or chemical reactions), propulsion mechanisms enable controlled movement and drug delivery. Nanorobots constructed from silicon, polymers, and piezoelectric compounds exhibit functional adaptability. Their applications span targeted drug delivery, oncology, neurosurgery, vascular medicine, and environmental remediation.
ConclusionNanorobots represent a trailblazing pharmaceutical innovation, offering highly specific, efficient, and minimally invasive drug delivery and disease monitoring capabilities. Their combination of biosensing and propulsion mechanisms enhances targeted delivery and clinical efficacy. Continued development in nanorobotic systems holds the potential to revolutionize clinical treatments and improve patient outcomes across multiple therapeutic domains.
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Navigating Regulatory Complexities in Biosimilar Approvals and Imports for Autoimmune Disorder Management: A Comparative Analysis of FDA (US), EMA (EU), and CDSCO (India) Guidelines
Authors: John Gerard S and Vasukidevi RamachandranAvailable online: 01 August 2025More LessBiosimilars offer cost-effective alternatives for autoimmune disorder treatment. However, India’s stringent regulatory barriers, including mandatory local trials, unclear interchangeability guidelines, and strict pricing controls, hinder market access. This study conducts a comparative analysis of the FDA (US), EMA (EU), and CDSCO (India) regulatory frameworks, highlighting key differences in approval pathways, post-marketing surveillance, and import regulations. Unlike previous studies, this paper employs a structured SWOT analysis to assess the impact of India's regulatory landscape on biosimilar accessibility. The findings reveal that India's local clinical trial mandates and complex approval processes hinder biosimilar adoption despite prior FDA or EMA approvals. Additionally, the absence of interchangeability guidelines discourages physician confidence, while stringent pricing policies under the Drug Price Control Order (DPCO) reduce manufacturer incentives. To improve biosimilar market penetration, India must streamline regulatory approvals, harmonize clinical trial requirements with international standards, and establish clear interchangeability guidelines. These reforms are essential to enhance the affordability and accessibility of biosimilars in the management of autoimmune disorders.
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Advancements in Enteric-coated Microspheres Formulation Development and Mangiferin Drug Delivery for the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Swati Yadav, Ranjit K. Harwansh and Rupa MazumderAvailable online: 01 August 2025More LessIntroductionUlcerative colitis, an inflammatory disease of the colon, is prone to recurrence. Research into novel therapies for this condition is urgently required. The current investigation aims to ascertain the protective impact of microspheres loaded with mangiferin in acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis (UC).
MethodsThe formulation significantly reduced inflammatory alterations, ulcer activity scores, and oxidative stress. Colitis was induced by injecting 1 mL of a 4% acetic acid solution. In addition to a macroscopical and gross evaluation, colon samples were tested for catalase and glutathione (GSH) activity.
ResultsMicrospheres loaded with mangiferin reduced the severity of ulcerative colitis caused by acetic acid, as indicated by improvements in weight loss, macroscopic score, ulcer area, and histological score.
DiscussionThis work emphasizes the use of dual-polymer microspheres to deliver mangiferin to the colon, allowing for pH-dependent and prolonged drug release. By increasing stability and site-specific activity, this method may be used to treat ulcerative colitis.
ConclusionThese findings suggest that enteric-coated microspheres loaded with mangiferin exhibit a protective effect against colon ulcers in rats and offer delayed-release properties compared to plain mangiferin.
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Aprepitant: Review on Solubility Enhancement
Available online: 21 July 2025More LessIntroductionSubstance P and its neurokinin (NK-1) receptors are upregulated in different pathophysiological conditions. Overexpression of the NK-1 receptor in cancer conditions has provided a promising pathway for cancer treatment. Clinically, Aprepitant (APT) is used as the only NK-1 antagonist in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Currently, investigations into using APT as a synergistic combination with radiation or standard chemotherapeutic drugs are underway. However, APT is categorised as a BCS Class IV drug, and therefore, solubility is one of the challenges when it must be delivered parenterally. The present review aims to understand the solubility enhancement techniques for better bioavailability.
MethodsResearch and review articles were sought to understand the chemistry and solubility enhancement techniques reported for APT. Search engines such as Science Direct, PubMed, Bentham, and Google Scholar were used with the keywords “Aprepitant, solubility, NK1 receptor, parenteral dosage form.”
ResultsThe review comprehensively discusses the methods to improve the solubility of APT using innovative technologies, including nanotechnology.
DiscussionThe review highlights the challenges associated with the use of APT in treating chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), as well as its potential as a promising anticancer agent. While various solubility enhancement techniques can be employed for the oral administration of APT, the appropriate use of excipients and stability are essential for its safe clinical use in parenteral dosage forms.
ConclusionThe available solubility enhancement techniques discussed come with benefits and limitations. Fosaprepitant, a prodrug, is preferably used as an IV dosage form. Similarly, modification to a prodrug and solubility-enhancing excipients for nanoformulation can help make APT a promising therapy.
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Formulation, Characterization, and In Vitro Analysis of a Curcumin-Loaded Lecithin-Coconut Oil-Based Emulgel for Enhanced Burn Management
Authors: Vishal, Sourav Dhandhi, Yeshna, Monika Singh, Monika, Rahul Pratap Singh and Vikas JhawatAvailable online: 18 July 2025More LessIntroductionEffective burn management is essential for alleviating patient discomfort and promoting recovery. Curcumin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, offering potential benefits in burn management. Coconut oil has also been reported to possess skin-moisturizing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to develop and evaluate curcumin-loaded coconut oil-based emulgel formulations to improve therapeutic outcomes in burn management.
MethodsEight emulgel formulations (F1-F8) were prepared utilizing lecithin, hyaluronic acid, and coconut oil. The developed formulations were evaluated for their organoleptic properties, including color, odor, texture, and phase separation, as well as their physicochemical characteristics, such as pH, viscosity, spreadability, drug content, and in vitro drug release. Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to analyse the morphological characteristics.
Results and DiscussionThe formulations exhibited a bi-continuous system with a three-dimensional polymeric network structure. The developed formulations exhibited pH values (5.40-6.35), viscosities (3840-5369 cps), spreadability (7-8 cm), drug contents (82-95%), and in vitro drug release (88-93%) over 24 hours, showing promising results for topical delivery. Among the formulations, F3 demonstrated the highest drug release, whereas F8 exhibited the highest viscosity and drug content. The emulgel also provided cooling, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects, supporting wound healing and pain relief.
ConclusionThe developed Curcumin-loaded coconut oil-based emulgel shows promise for burn management, offering enhanced topical drug delivery and therapeutic benefits. These findings support further research to optimize formulation parameters for improved clinical outcomes.
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DoE-Optimized Minitabs: Fabricating a Promising Modified-Release Sprinkle Formulation
Authors: Suman R. Borsadiya and Dharmik M. MehtaAvailable online: 17 July 2025More LessBackgroundDysphagia is a challenging medical condition that significantly affects individuals' swallowing function, quality of life, and overall well-being, especially in geriatric and pediatric populations. Sprinkle formulations are emerging as a broadly accepted solution to this challenge. However, such formulations are quite challenging to formulate as modified-release delivery systems. The present study aims to resolve this issue by formulating modified-release minitabs of the model drug etoricoxib as a sprinkle formulation.
MethodsA fabricated metal mold and punch system was used to manually manufacture minitabs with a diameter of 3.2 mm and a weight of approximately 22 mg. The formulation derived from trial batches was further optimized using a 3 × 2 complete factorial design, as implemented in Stat-Ease Design Expert 7.0 software (trial version). Independent factors HPMC K4M (X1) and K100M (X2) were optimized against dependent factors: Hardness (R1), Friability (R2), and Drug release at 2 hrs (R3), 4 hrs (R4), and 8 hrs (R5).
ResultThe derived, optimized formulation, based on a desirability function, sustained drug release for up to 8 hours and met all the acceptance criteria. The final dosage form was designed as a hard gelatin capsule filled with approximately 22 minitabs, in the form of a sprinkle formulation, to be sprinkled over soft foods for administration.
DiscussionThe study demonstrated that factorial design can be effectively employed to develop sprinkle minitabs with modified drug release. Using different grades of HPMC helped in controlling the drug release over time. This approach offers a promising strategy for developing patient-friendly formulations, particularly for individuals with swallowing difficulties.
ConclusionAs the formulation was designed using a model drug, further investigations with other drugs can also be done with relevant changes in the optimized formulation. In summary, it can also be utilized as a platform for developing modified-release sprinkle formulations of other drugs.
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Nanosponges in Detoxification: Strategy for Toxin Removal and Drug Overdose Management
Authors: Nishtha Sakhuja, Khushi, Chirag Jain, Shikha Baghel Chauhan and Indu SinghAvailable online: 17 July 2025More LessA potential class of cutting-edge medication delivery devices, nanosponges have become an effective tool for managing drug overdoses and detoxification. The capacity to adsorb and sequester a variety of toxins, such as heavy metals, bacterial endotoxins, and medications, makes these highly porous, biocompatible, and biodegradable particles—which are usually made from cross-linked polymers—an effective way to remove toxins. Nanosponges' adaptability enables their use in a number of sectors, including drug-resistant illness treatment, environmental remediation, and acute poisoning treatment. Detoxification and targeted drug release for diseases like cancer, heart disease, and neurological problems are made possible by the controlled delivery of therapeutic substances using nanosponges. With a focus on their capacity to improve medication bioavailability and lower systemic toxicity, this study examines the mechanism of action, design approaches, and therapeutic potential of nanosponges in detoxification. The paper also discusses new developments in the sector, such as how they can be used to treat drug overdoses and how nanosponges can help stop and lessen the negative effects of environmental contaminants. Despite its potential, there are still obstacles to overcome in order to maximize nanosponges' manufacturing, scalability, and regulatory acceptance. In order to optimize their potential in therapeutic treatments, this review attempts to give a thorough overview of the most recent advancements in detoxifying nanosponges, their clinical uses, and future research objectives.
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Comprehending the Potential of Topical Therapies for the Treatment of Onychomycosis
Authors: Shivangi Verma, Naveen Kumar, Aman Sharma and Shweta AgarwalAvailable online: 14 July 2025More LessIntroductionOnychomycosis is a frequently occurring fungal infection that affects the nails of the fingers and toes. Infection is caused by yeasts, dermatophytes, and nondermatophyte molds. Onychomycosis should be confirmed by mycology. Diagnosis can be made by various techniques, such as microscopy, fungal culture, potassium hydroxide, polymerase chain reaction, and histopathology. This review was undertaken to study the challenges associated with topical therapy of onychomycosis and techniques to overcome these challenges.
MethodsThe search engines used for carrying out the literature review were PubMed, Google, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The search terms employed were “topical therapies for onychomycosis”, “diagnosis of onychomycosis”, and “challenges in the treatment of onychomycosis”. The data related to topical treatments were compiled, and articles available in English language were only considered.
Results and DiscussionThe main challenge associated with topical therapy was found to be the unique structure of the nails, hampering drug penetration to the infection site and inducing fungal drug resistance. Conventional treatment methods, as well as novel techniques developed for topical therapy, like microporation, ionotophoresis, laser, and photodynamic therapy, have also been explored. Oral antifungals are most commonly used for moderate to severe onychomycosis as they provide greater cure rates, whereas topical application of antifungals is advocated for mild to moderate infections as it possesses a better safety profile. Efinaconazole solution (10%), tavaborole solution (5%), and ciclopirox nail lacquer (8%) for topical use are accepted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the management of onychomycosis. Laser treatment is approved in the United States for the short-term improvement of clear nails in fungal infections, but the clinical outcomes have not yet reached optimal levels.
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Formulation and Characterization of Multiparticulate System for Proton Pump Inhibitor using Combination Therapy for Peptic Ulcer
Authors: Prince Nikhil Rathore and Alpana RamAvailable online: 14 July 2025More LessIntroductionThe purpose of this study was to develop sustained-release enteric-coated granules of Amla extract and esomeprazole magnesium for the treatment of peptic ulcer. It is well known that Amla possesses anti-ulcer activity due to the phenolic compound gallic acid, which inhibits a gastric H+/K+ ATPase pump. Therefore, enteric-coated Amla extract granules were combined with esomeprazole magnesium granules to enhance the synergistic effect, mitigate adverse effects associated with esomeprazole magnesium, and improve overall anti-ulcer activity, while the enteric-coated multiparticulate system ensures prolonged drug release with a minimum dose.
MethodsA Soxhlet extraction method was employed to obtain the Amla phenolic extract, using a solvent mixture of ethanol and water in a 7:3 ratio. Wet granulation techniques were utilized to prepare granules, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate served as the enteric coating agent. The in vitro drug release and drug entrapment were used to optimize the enteric-coated granules of Amla extract and Esomeprazole Magnesium. An in vivo study was conducted in Wistar albino rats (120-140 g) of both sexes to demonstrate the antiulcer activity of the developed formulation against an aspirin-induced ulcerated rat model.
ResultsBoth in vitro and in vivo studies were conducted. In the in vitro studies, drug release was assessed at pH 1.2 (simulated gastric fluid) and pH 6.8 (simulated intestinal fluid). The results demonstrated negligible drug release in the simulated gastric fluid due to the protective enteric coating, while efficient drug release occurred in the simulated intestinal fluid. In the in vivo studies, the combination therapy showed a significant therapeutic effect compared to other treatment groups in an animal model.
DiscussionAmla extract and esomeprazole magnesium were combined to prepare sustained-release enteric-coated granules for the treatment of peptic ulcers. The phenolic substance gallic acid inhibits the gastric H+/K+ ATPase pump, thereby enhancing anti-ulcer efficacy. The combination demonstrated substantial therapeutic efficacy in both in vitro and in vivo investigations.
ConclusionThe amla extract and esomeprazole magnesium enteric-coated granules with sustained release and negligible drug release in acidic pH were achieved. In the in vivo studies, the combination therapy demonstrated a significant positive effect in treating peptic ulcers in a rat ulcer model, as shown by assessments of various parameters such as ulcer index, total gastric juice acidity, hematological analysis, and histopathological evaluations.
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Next-Generation Phospholipid Nanocomplexes for Precision Neurotherapeutics: Harnessing Endogenous Blood-Brain Barrier Transport Mechanisms to Revolutionize the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Dhruv Pratap Singh Jaitawat, Indu Singh and Shikha Baghel ChauhanAvailable online: 03 July 2025More LessThe treatment of neurodegenerative illnesses remains a substantial problem due to the blood-brain barrier's restrictive nature, which restricts therapeutic agent penetration. Phospholipid Nanocomplexes (PNCs) have emerged as next-generation neurotherapeutics, utilizing natural BBB transport pathways to improve drug delivery. These nanocarriers, with lipid-based architectures, allow for receptor-mediated transcytosis, lipid raft-mediated transport, and adsorptive-mediated endocytosis, resulting in precise and sustained drug release inside the central nervous system. Recent preclinical and clinical studies have shown that PNC-based formulations of neurotrophic factors, antioxidants, and gene-silencing therapies significantly improve neuronal survival, cognitive function, and neuroprotection in conditions like Alzheimer's Disease (AD), Parkinson's Disease (PD), Glioblastoma (GBM), and multiple sclerosis. Despite the positive outcomes, issues such as scalability, long-term safety, and regulatory approval remain. This study critically assesses the present status of PNC-based neurotherapeutics, emphasizing their benefits over traditional therapies, analyzing the most recent clinical trial outcomes, and assessing difficulties and future prospects. To improve PNC effectiveness, the potential for artificial intelligence-driven medication design, multifunctionalized nanocarriers, and hybrid biomaterial methods is investigated. As biocompatible and patient-specific nanomedicine advances, PNCs represent a breakthrough approach to precision neuroscience, providing tailored, efficient, and safer therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Global and Indian Regulatory Frameworks for Pharmaceutical Excipients, APIs, and Formulations: Challenges and Harmonization Strategies
Authors: P. Dhinesh Pandian and Rajaganapathy KaliyaperumalAvailable online: 16 June 2025More LessPharmaceutical excipients play a critical role in drug formulation, ensuring stability, bioavailability, manufacturability, and patient safety. While India has made progress in aligning with international excipient regulations, significant regulatory gaps persist, including inconsistent enforcement, lack of mandatory GMP compliance, and inadequate impurity testing standards. These challenges create quality inconsistencies and potential safety risks, particularly for high-risk excipients. Indian excipient manufacturers face difficulties meeting international regulatory expectations, such as FDA, EMA, and PMDA requirements, due to differences in documentation, quality control, and risk assessment standards. Case studies highlight successful compliance strategies, including supplier qualification, in-house impurity testing, and risk-based categorization. To strengthen excipient regulation, mandatory GMP certification, a risk-based excipient categorization system, and alignment with IPEC-PQG, WHO, and ICH Q7 guidelines are recommended. Additionally, CDSCO must enhance oversight through advanced impurity testing and improved traceability requirements. Ensuring regulatory harmonization with global standards will enhance India’s competitiveness in the excipient supply chain, facilitate international market access, and improve overall drug safety and efficacy. This review underscores the urgent need for structured regulatory reforms to streamline compliance, ensure excipient quality, and strengthen India’s position in the global pharmaceutical industry.
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Gallic Acid: A Potent Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Agent in Modern Cosmeceuticals
Authors: Urvashi Saini, Anjali Sharma and Vishnu MittalAvailable online: 26 May 2025More LessThe 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.
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Recent Expansions and Future Outlook in the Delivery of Poorly Soluble Phytoconstituents through Solid Dispersion Technique
Authors: Bhavesh Sahu, Kalyani Sakure, Ajazuddin1 and Hemant BadwaikAvailable online: 23 May 2025More LessPhytoconstituents, derived from plants, possess significant therapeutic potential but often face challenges such as poor solubility and low bioavailability, limiting their efficacy. Solid dispersion (SD) is a promising approach to improve the solubility and bioavailability of these poorly water-soluble phytoconstituents. By dispersing the active drug in a hydrophilic carrier, solid dispersion enhances the surface area of the drug, improving its dissolution rate and enhancing absorption. This review provides an overview of the various generations of solid dispersions, highlighting the evolution from crystalline carriers in first-generation solid dispersions to the more advanced amorphous solid solutions in second and third-generation formulations, which offer enhanced solubility and bioavailability. The article also discusses various techniques for preparing solid dispersions, including solvent evaporation, melting, and spray-drying methods, and emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate carriers, such as hydrophilic polymers, to optimize the dissolution rate of phytoconstituents. The study highlighted the recent case studies on several phytochemicals, like alkaloids, glycosides, Polyphenols, etc., demonstrating the effectiveness of solid dispersion in improving their solubility and therapeutic performance. Additionally, the review addresses the challenges related to the solubility of phytoconstituents and their impact on drug absorption, as well as the role of solid dispersion in overcoming these challenges. Overall, solid dispersion technology emerges as a versatile and effective tool for enhancing the oral bioavailability of phytoconstituents, paving the way for more efficient herbal therapies in modern medicine.
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Drug Delivery Strategies for the Management of Attention-deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Case of Differentiated Product Development of Methylphenidate
Authors: Shubham Kamble, Ganesh Deshmukh, Paras Jain, Abhishek Jha and Sanjeevani S. DeshkarAvailable online: 23 May 2025More LessADHD is a common condition that affects many kids in the United States, about 2 to 18 percent of children between 6 and 17 years old. ADHD manifests as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, impacting various aspects of life. Effective management involves a combination of psychostimulant medication, such as methylphenidate, and behavioral therapy. Modified-release formulations, including chewable tablets, transdermal patches, and osmotic-controlled release tablets, offer improved treatment adherence and overall quality of life. Understanding the pathophysiology involves neuroimaging studies that reveal alterations in brain regions rich in dopamine receptors. Methylphenidate, a common ADHD medication, works by inhibiting dopamine reuptake, thereby increasing extracellular dopamine levels. Different drug delivery systems, such as extended-release chewable tablets, transdermal patches, and OROS formulations, provide diverse options for individual needs. The advent of innovative formulations like methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release oral suspension (Quillivant ER) and methylphenidate hydrochloride multilayer extended-release capsules (Aptensio XR) addresses challenges in pediatric medication administration. Recent additions like the orally disintegrating tablet (Cotempla X-ODT) offer convenience and flexibility. Understanding the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and benefits of these formulations enhances the ability to tailor ADHD treatment to individual patient needs.
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Advancing Drug Stability Using Non-Aqueous Gels: Properties, Applications, and Emerging Challenges
Authors: Jabin Ahmed, Aians H Kalita, Ghanshyam Das Gupta and Shubham ThakurAvailable online: 21 May 2025More LessThis 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.
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Advancement in Nanotablet Research: An Overview
Available online: 13 May 2025More LessModern 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.
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