European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Microsponges are a novel drug delivery system that has been developed for targeted drug delivery . They are polymeric spherical particles with small diameter and large surface area. They are hollow inside and entrap active ingredients and release them in a slow, sustained manner.It is one of the most versatile drug delivery systems that are used currently.Microsponges have various properties with enhanced drug stability and decreased side effects. One of the delivery system’s advantages is its versatility, meaning it can be prepared in various forms such as powder, gel, solutions and lotions. The particle is nanometer sized and there are currently two methods of preparation of Microsponges. The polymer material is a patented product that is commercially available. Recently, pharmaceutical companies have marketed microsponges as an oral and topical product. They are most commonly used for dermatological products, like sunscreen, topical antifungal and antibiotic drugs etc. The main disadvantage of oral and most of the parenteral delivery systems is the side effects that arise due to the specific drug delivery mechanism. There are so many discrepancies between the viability of the product in-vivo in clinical studies when compared to the actual usage in patients. Microsponges seem to offer comparatively effective drug action and fewer side effects.Most recent researches have focused primarily on the use of microsponges in specific fields such as anti-ulcer drugs, antibacterial and antifungal, anticancer drugs . Some researchers have explored the possibility of targeted drug delivery for arthritis and hypertension using microsponges. This review highlights the newer drug delivery strategies using microsponges.