Biopolymers as Carriers for Nasal Drug Delivery

Abstract

Biopolymers are the most abundant raw materials that can be obtained from natural sources including bacteria, fungi, plants and even humans. The biopolymers are easily available, non-toxic, biodegradable and Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS). These natural polymers can play an important role in the formulation of drug delivery systems by influencing the release, residence time and permeation of the therapeutic agent. The present review gives an insight into the important biopolymers and their properties in the effective delivery of the therapeutic agents systemically as well as targeting the brain via the intranasal route.

Keywords:

• Bioadhesion
• Biopolymers
• Chitosan
• Nasal drug delivery
• Polyelectrolyte complexes