Niosomes in sustained and targeted drug delivery: some recent advances

Abstract

Niosomes represent an emerging class of novel vesicular systems. They are composed of nonionic surfactants which are biodegradable and relatively nontoxic. They were developed as stable and inexpensive alternatives to liposomes. Since their early introduction to cosmetic industry their role has diversified to other application areas. They are now being ardently explored as potential carriers for sustained and targeted drug delivery. In addition to conventional, oral, and parenteral routes, they are amenable to be delivered by ocular, transdermal, vaginal, and inhalation routes. Delivery of biotechnological products including vaccine delivery with niosomes is also an interesting and promising research area. The introduction of provesicular approach in the form of proniosomes has further increased the relevance of these systems. More concerted research efforts, however, are still required to realize the full potential of these novel systems. This review considers the current status and explores the potential of niosomes in drug delivery with special attention to their role in drug targeting. Their methods of preparation, formulation aspects, advantages, limitations, and applications are also discussed.

Keywords::

• Niosomes
• nonionic surfactants
• sustained drug delivery
• drug targeting

Acknowledgments

Adnan Azeem is grateful to the University Grants Commission, Government of India for providing the research fellowship.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.