Nanosponges: An Emerging and Promising Strategy in Drug Delivery

Abstract

Nanosponges (NSs) are a novel class of nanomaterials that have garnered substantial interest due to their unique properties and potential applications in drug delivery. The primary objective of this review is to provide the basics of nanosponge-based drug delivery systems, preparation techniques, and evaluation methods. It also covers associated aspects like challenges phased in industry and research in the manufacturing of NSs. NSs are tiny, mesh-like structures that can be loaded with drugs to improve solubility, stability, extended release, and bioavailability across various dosage forms. They can encapsulate a wide range of substances, including proteins, enzymes, hydrophilic and lipophilic chemicals, vaccines, and antibodies, and can be made from either inorganic or organic materials. NSs offer several advantages, such as compatibility, sterility, cost-effectiveness, extended release, better stability, reduced side effects, versatility, taste masking, and formulation enhancement. The review also elucidates different types of NS, their preparation methods, prospective applications, and evaluation processes. Overall, NSs have demonstrated considerable promise, with the potential to transform nanomedicine.

Keywords: Drug delivery; Drug loading; Drug release mechanism; Evaluation; Applications; Nanosponges