Abstract

MICROSPHERES: A CONTROLLED DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM A REVIEW

Reetu Rani*, Arti Sharma and Sunil K. Batra

ABSTRACT

Microspheres are characteristically free flowing powders consisting of protein or synthetic polymers. The polymers which are used for the preparation of microspheres are biodegradable in nature and ideally having particle size less than 1000 micrometer (μm). Microparticles play an important role as drug delivery systems aiming at improved bioavailability of conventional drugs and minimizing side effects. There are many approaches in delivering a therapeutic substance to the target site in a sustained controlled release fashion. Microspheres received much more attention not only for prolonged release, but also for targeting of anticancer drugs to the tumour. It can encapsulate many types of drugs including small molecules, proteins and nucleic acids and are easily administered through a syringe needle. They are generally biocompatible, can provide high bioavailability, and are capable of sustained release for long periods of time. Microspheres have been reported as novel drug delivery system from the pharmaceutical point of view providing the possibility to achieve sustained and controlled drug release.

Keywords: Microspheres, sustained release, tumour, prolonged release, in -vitro, controlled release.