Innovative niosomal in-situ gel: Elevating ocular drug delivery synergies

Abstract

The eye is an intricate organ with multiple defense mechanisms and protective barriers. This organ is susceptible to infections, hereditary abnormalities, and vision impairments. Therefore, it is necessary to administer medicine to the eyes through the appropriate method. The conventional approach of ocular drug administration may be inefficient due to limited bioavailability. Targeted drug delivery systems based on nanocarriers can overcome some restrictions encountered due to the complex structure of the eye. In situ, gel-loaded niosomes may offer advantages in the field of ocular drug delivery. Niosomes, act as a promising carrier for hydrophobic and hydrophilic medicines, shielding them from fast clearance and degradation and allowing persistent release in ocular tissues. The inclusion of niosomes in the in-situ gels provides increased corneal retention, thereby ensuring enhanced medication penetration and prolonged contact time. Furthermore, niosomes are a potential choice for long-term therapy because of their ability to offer sustained drug release, lower dose frequency, and minimize systemic side effects. This article presents a detailed review of the current state of research on niosomes-loaded in-situ gel for ocular distribution, focusing on formulation techniques, characterization, toxicity, mechanisms of action, mechanisms of sol-gel transition, and prospective uses in a various ocular illness. In-depth reviews of the various corneal penetration and absorption models for the in-vitro, in-vivo, and ex-vivo research are also presented, along with a summary of the various patents and the commercial formulation of in-situ gels.