Development of Functional Solubilized Formulations of Water-insoluble Drugs

Biopharmaceutics Classification System Class II and IV drugs face significant challenges owing to poor water solubility, restricting their formulation in liquid delivery forms. The use of polymers, including the loading of drugs into nanoparticles, has attracted attention as an effective strategy for improving the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs. These polymer carrier systems possess a hydrophilic outer shell and a hydrophobic inner core that can encapsulate poorly water-soluble drugs and improve their dispersibility in aqueous environments. Nanosizing techniques provide advantages including increased surface area and dissolution rate. Polymeric carrier systems also provide enhanced delivery efficiencies to specific tissues via passive and active targeting. This review article describes the development of solubilized formulations of water-insoluble drugs using several functional polymers, including polyvinyl alcohol, hyaluronic acid, and styrene-maleic acid copolymers.