Design and Development of Novel Drug Delivery Systems for Poorly Soluble Drugs

Abstract

The development of novel drug delivery systems for poorly soluble drugs has become a major area of research in modern pharmaceutical chemistry. Many newly discovered chemical entities suffer from low aqueous solubility, which limits their bioavailability and therapeutic potential. Various formulation strategies have been employed to overcome this issue, such as solid dispersions, nanocrystals, liposomes, and polymeric nanoparticles. These systems enhance the dissolution rate, improve absorption, and achieve controlled drug release. The use of surfactants, co-solvents, and complexing agents further enhances solubility. Formulation design requires consideration of physicochemical properties, drug–excipient compatibility, and stability under physiological conditions. Advanced analytical techniques like FTIR, DSC, and XRD play crucial roles in characterizing these formulations. This paper emphasizes the need for integrating formulation science with molecular chemistry to optimize the performance of poorly soluble drugs, ensuring better therapeutic outcomes and patient compliance.

KEYWORDS: Poorly soluble drugs, Nanoparticles, Solubility enhancement, Bioavailability, Solid dispersions