Abstract

The use of natural compounds has recently been reconsidered in modern clinical practice. A further advancement of these compounds is represented by the possibility of using innovative drug delivery systems that can improve the biopharmaceutical features of the delivered compounds. This review examines the recent developments in the field of delivery of natural drugs belonging to several therapeutic classes. In particular, the examined therapeutic classes are: antitumoral drugs, i.e. paclitaxel, doxorubicin, tea catechins and hypericin; anti-infective drugs, i.e. Melaleuca alternifolia and Artemisia arborescens L.; and antinflammatory/antioxidant drugs, i.e. cannabinoids and glycyrrhizinates used for topical application. In this review we highlight the utility of a suitable drug delivery system to improve the biopharmaceutical aspects of these drugs. The examined carriers are: vesicular carriers (liposomes, Ethosomes®, ultradeformable liposomes), nano- and microparticles, innovative gels, microemulsions. Keywords: Natural compounds, antitumoral drugs, anti-infective drugs, antiinflammatory drugs, drug delivery systems, vesicles, nanoparticles, microemulsions, cyclodextrins

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.