Targeting Alzheimer’s disease pathology: influence of nano-based drug delivery systems loaded with a combination of herbal and synthetic drugs

INTRODUCTION: Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a progressive neurological disorder marked by cognitive decline and memory loss. Current treatments, including acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) and NMDA receptor antagonists, provide only symptomatic relief due to poor Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) permeability and side effects. The integration of synthetic and natural drug combinations with nanotechnology offers a promising strategy to enhance drug delivery, efficacy, and overall therapeutic outcomes. AREAS COVERED: This review explores the integration of herbal and synthetic drugs in nano-based delivery systems for AD treatment. It examines co-loading efficiency, release kinetics, and synergistic therapeutic benefits of dual-drug formulations. Additionally, it discusses target-specific ligand functionalization for improved BBB penetration and neuronal targeting, alongside a comparative analysis of dual- vs. single-drug formulations and their impact on disease progression and efficacy. EXPERT OPINION: Current treatments mainly offer early symptomatic relief but fail to target multiple neurobiological mechanisms of AD. Combining established therapies with herbal drugs can enhance efficacy and reduce side effects. Co-loading synthetic drugs and phytoconstituents in one nanoformulation can improve targeted delivery, sustained release, and minimize systemic effects for better outcomes.