Microsponges as promising vehicle for drug delivery and targeting: Preparation, characterization and applications

Development of novel drug delivery systems for optimization of drugs’ efficacy and cost-effectiveness has become highly competitive and rapidly evolving area of interest. Controlling the delivery rate of drugs to a predetermined site has been one of the biggest challenges faced by formulators. Amongst the novel drug delivery systems that proved their efficacy in achieving controlled drug release are microsponges. They are used mostly for topical use and have recently been used for oral administration. Microsponges are sponge-like polymeric microspheres with a large porous surface that can entrap a wide variety of active ingredients. They can then be further incorporated into a formulated product such as a gel, cream, liquid or even tablets. Microsponges are designed to deliver a pharmaceutical active ingredient efficiently at the minimum dose and also to enhance stability and reduce drugs side effects. This review introduces the potential features of microsponges along with their advantages. Moreover, it highlights the methods of preparation and characterization of microsponges and also covers their topical and oral applications.   Key words: Microsponges, drug delivery, preparation, characterization, topical, oral.