A Systematic Review on "Self- Micro Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SMEDDS) for Herbal and Plant-Based Drugs: Enhancing Solubility and Bioavailability"
Year: 2025
Type: review
Abstract: The rise of modern drug discovery has led to the identification of numerous lipophilic drug candidates with poor water solubility, posing challenges in achieving optimal oral bioavailability. Micro- and nano-based drug delivery systems, particularly Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SMEDDS), have emerged as effective solutions to enhance solubility and absorption.This brief review highlights key concepts of SMEDDS and their application in herbal and plant-based drug formulations. It outlines formulation strategies, compares phytopharmaceuticals with synthetic drugs in SMEDDS platforms, and discusses challenges such as variability, poor stability, and regulatory issues in the development of herbal drugs. Literature reports demonstrate improved solubility and bioavailability of herbal actives using SMEDDS.The paper also summarises current research, marketed formulations, and future directions aimed at overcoming limitations and optimising the delivery of both herbal and synthetic drugs using SMEDDS.
Source: Journal of chemical health risks
Language: English
Subfield: Pharmaceutical Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7218293043