Mucoadhesion: A Potential Approach in Site Specific and Targeted Drug Delivery

Mucoadhesive drug delivery system (MDDS) is a promising approach for targeted drug release. It addresses the bioavailability issues of pharmaceutical dosage forms i.e., remaining at their absorption site for an inadequately short time. Mucoadhesive dosage forms adhere to mucosal surfaces and offer various advantages including prolonged drug residence time, enhanced drug absorption, and localized drug delivery. Novel mucoadhesive polymers, including natural, synthetic, and semi-synthetic materials that improve mucoadhesive properties and biocompatibility were discussed in this review. Formulation and designing of nanoparticles, liposomes, and micelles with a mucoadhesive approach enables targeted drug delivery and controlled release profiles. The key considerations for drugs suitable for mucoadhesive drug delivery are poorly soluble, short half-life, and sensitivity to gastric environment. This review comprehensively explains the mechanism, theories, advantages, and recent advancements in mucoadhesive drug delivery.