Microemulsion-based media as novel drug delivery systems.
Microemulsions are clear, stable, isotropic mixtures of oil, water and surfactant, frequently in combination with a cosurfactant. These systems are currently of interest to the pharmaceutical scientist because of their considerable potential to act as drug delivery vehicles by incorporating a wide range of drug molecules. In order to appreciate the potential of microemulsions as delivery vehicles, this review gives an overview of the formation and phase behaviour and characterization of microemulsions. The use of microemulsions and closely related microemulsion-based systems as drug delivery vehicles is reviewed, with particular emphasis being placed on recent developments and future directions.
Lawrence
M J
MJ
Department of Pharmacy, King's College London, Franklin Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, SE1 9NN, London, UK. jayne.lawrence@kcl.ac.uk
Rees
G D
GD
D000818:Animals; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D004655:Emulsions; D005079:Excipients / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005782:Gels; D006801:Humans; D008823:Micelles; D013501:Surface-Active Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D014783:Viscosity
D004655:Emulsions; D005079:Excipients; D005782:Gels; D008823:Micelles; D013501:Surface-Active Agents