Nanonization strategies for poorly water-soluble drugs

Huabing Chen, Chalermchai Khemtong, Xiangliang Yang, Xueling Chang, Jinming Gao

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

556 Scopus citations

Abstract

Poor water solubility for many drugs and drug candidates remains a major obstacle to their development and clinical application. Conventional formulations to improve solubility suffer from low bioavailability and poor pharmacokinetics, with some carriers rendering systemic toxicities (e.g. Cremophor® EL). In this review, several major nanonization techniques that seek to overcome these limitations for drug solubilization are presented. Strategies including drug nanocrystals, nanoemulsions and polymeric micelles are reviewed. Finally, perspectives on existing challenges and future opportunities are highlighted.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)354-360
Number of pages7
JournalDrug Discovery Today
Volume16
Issue number7-8
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 2011

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology
  • Drug Discovery

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