Microfluidic nanoprecipitation systems for preparing pure drug or polymeric drug loaded nanoparticles: an overview

INTRODUCTION: This review gives an overview of the different microfluidic setups used to produce either pure drug or drug-loaded polymeric nanoparticles. AREA COVERED: We propose a description of the different fluidic principles reported in the literature, explaining their respective design and configuration in parallel with the technical challenges related to the nanoprecipitation of the polymer, in relation with the results obtained, e.g., particle size, distribution and productivity. EXPERT OPINION: This review is mostly intended for a broad readership and provides key tools regarding the choice of microfluidic setups, tailored to given specifications. We discuss the specificities and geometries of the microfluidic devices intended to nanoprecipitation, advantages, drawbacks and limitations.