Abstract

NANOSPONGES: A NOVEL CARRIER FOR DRUG DELIVERY

Sumana G.*, Shabaraya A. R. and Vineetha K.

ABSTRACT

Current advances in nanotechnology paved route for design of nanogels with many possible applications in the field of nanomedicine. Nanogels being dispersions of hydrogel nanoparticles or nanosponges offer excessive drug loading compared to other nanocarriers and which is helpful for solving issues associated with stability, solubility and delayed release of bioactive agents and discovery of new drug delivery systems for numerous routes of administration besides the oral route. Controlled release of the loaded bioactive molecules and solubility enhancement of poorly water-soluble drugs are fundamental benefits of nanosponge drug delivery system. This article provides the general introduction of nanosponges, their advantages and disadvantages, preparation methodologies, characterization along with marketed preparations. Reported works on nanosponges were reviewed and have Been briefly outlined here which further help to understand the concept of nanosponges in depth.

Keywords: Controlled drug delivery, Nanosponges, topical gel, ethyl cellulose, dissolution.