Colloidal carriers for the enhanced delivery through the skin

Expert Opin Drug Deliv. 2008 Jul;5(7):737-55. doi: 10.1517/17425247.5.7.737.

Abstract

Background: The skin is the largest organ of our body and acts as a protective barrier with sensory and immunological functions. Its peculiar structure influences the passage of bioactives and only its modulation can facilitate the drug dermal/transdermal diffusion. In the past few years research in this field has assured better use of this application area.

Methods: One of the most promising approaches is the use of drug delivery devices; this review explains the state of the art of drug transport through the skin by means of vesicular (classic liposomes, Transfersomes, niosomes and ethosomes) and particulate systems.

Results/conclusion: Colloidal drug delivery systems are important in the field of drug delivery systems as their different characteristics make them suitable for various purposes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical*
  • Animals
  • Colloids / chemistry*
  • Drug Carriers / chemistry*
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Humans
  • Liposomes
  • Nanoparticles
  • Skin / chemistry
  • Skin Absorption / physiology*

Substances

  • Colloids
  • Drug Carriers
  • Liposomes