CURRENT CHALLENGES AND FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES IN SELF-NANOEMULSIFYING DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS

Abhijeet S. Welankiwar*, Yash P. Babhulkar and Pradyumna S. Keche

ABSTRACT

The challenge of poor solubility in many newly discovered pharmaceutical compounds remains a significant barrier to effective drug delivery. Self-nano emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SNEDDS) have emerged as a promising solution to this problem, particularly for poorly water-soluble drugs. SNEDDS are advanced formulations composed of lipids, surfactants, co-surfactants, and sometimes co-solvents, which form nano-sized emulsions upon contact with water. This nanoemulsion enhances the solubility, bioavailability, and absorption of lipophilic drugs, bypassing limitations of conventional formulations like variable absorption rates and low bioavailability. In addition to improving solubility, SNEDDS can also provide targeted drug delivery, controlled release, and increased stability. The system’s adaptability allows for its use in various pharmaceutical forms, including liquids, tablets, and solid formulations, offering flexibility in therapeutic applications. Despite these advantages, challenges remain in formulation optimization, particularly regarding drug loading capacity, stability, and potential drug precipitation. Advances in lipid-based carriers, surfactants, and co-surfactants are continuously being explored to improve the efficacy of SNEDDS. This review explores the development, benefits, and challenges of SNEDDS, focusing on their potential to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs, contributing to developing more effective and patient-friendly therapies.

Keywords: The challenge of poor solubility in many newly discovered pharmaceutical compounds remains a significant barrier to effective drug delivery. Self-nano emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SNEDDS) have emerged as a promising solution to this problem, particu