Abstract

ADVANCEMENTS IN THE DELIVERY OF FLUCONAZOLE AND GRISEOFULVIN: OVERCOMING CHALLENGES IN ANTIFUNGAL THERAPY

Preeti, Sunil Jawla and Seema Rohilla*

ABSTRACT

Fungal infections present a growing global health concern, especially among immune compromised populations. Fluconazole and griseofulvin are well-established antifungal agents commonly used to treat a range of superficial and systemic mycoses. However, their clinical effectiveness is often limited by poor water solubility, low bioavailability, and drug resistance, which hinder optimal therapeutic outcomes. Recent advancements in drug delivery technologies aim to address these limitations by enhancing the pharmacokinetic profiles and therapeutic efficacy of these agents. Novel delivery systems such as nanosponges, liposomes, nanoparticles, solid lipid carriers, and polymer-based platforms have demonstrated promising potential in improving drug solubility, sustaining release, targeting infected tissues, and minimizing systemic toxicity. In particular, nanocarrier-basedformulations have enabled dual-drug loading, site-specific delivery, and synergistic action, which can be especially beneficial for difficult-to-treat or resistant fungal infections. This review highlights current progress in the development of advanced delivery strategies for fluconazole and griseofulvin, with a focus on overcoming existing barriers in antifungal therapy and improving patient outcomes.

Keywords: Fluconazole, Griseofulvin, Novel delivery systems, Targeting, Antifungal.