Carrier-Based Drug Delivery

A steadily growing number of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) exhibits low bioavailability and requires protection from enzymatic and acid-catalyzed degradation in the body. Therefore, the development of efficient carrier-based delivery systems is of increasing importance. Carrier systems based on liposomes, polymeric micelles, and micro- and nanoparticles and capsules are presented. Methods to prepare the carriers as well as routes of drug encapsulation, delivery, and release are reviewed. The advantages and disadvantages of each carrier type are mentioned. As one can reasonably expect, there is no one carrier that fits all requirements but carriers have been developed that will address the needs of a specific API.