A review on gastro retentive drug delivery system

Abstract

Gastro-retentive drug delivery systems (GRDDS) have emerged as a promising solution to overcome challenges related to the poor bioavailability of oral drug formulations. GRDDS aim to extend the residence time of drug formulations in the stomach, facilitating controlled and sustained release of active ingredients. This is particularly beneficial for drugs with a narrow absorption window, those unstable in alkaline pH, or those exhibiting increased solubility in acidic environments. Various approaches to achieve gastric retention have been developed, including floating systems, mucoadhesive polymers, magnetic materials, and expandable devices. Each of these strategies aims to prevent premature gastric emptying, thereby enhancing drug absorption and improving therapeutic efficacy. The development of GRDDS requires careful consideration of both in vitro and in vivo evaluations to optimize performance. Techniques like gamma scintigraphy and MRI are commonly employed to assess gastric retention in vivo, although studies involving small animals remain limited. In addition to technical challenges, the physiological variability of the gastrointestinal tract, food effects, and inconsistent gastric emptying rates present barriers to widespread GRDDS adoption. Despite these obstacles, GRDDS have shown promise in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, offering the potential for more targeted and personalized therapies. This review provides an overview of recent innovations in GRDDS, examining formulation strategies, evaluation techniques, and clinical applications, while also addressing the challenges that need to be overcome for successful market implementation.