A Review on Floating Drug Delivery System

Abstract

The oral drug delivery system is widely preferred for its convenience. Floating drug delivery systems (FDDS) offer significant advantages for drugs primarily absorbed in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, such as the stomach, duodenum, and jejunum. This review explores the various types, principles, mechanisms, and polymers used in FDDS. Both natural polymers like guar gum, chitosan, xanthan gum, gellan gum, and sodium alginate, as well as synthetic ones like HPMC, Eudragit, and ethyl cellulose, are commonly employed. These polymers help in prolonging gastric retention, enhancing the absorption and efficacy of drugs. FDDS has numerous benefits, such as improved bioavailability and therapeutic effectiveness. However, they also come with some limitations, such as their complexity and potential for irregular release profiles. Furthermore, infectious diseases caused by pathogens (viruses, bacteria, protozoa) can disrupt normal body functions and complicate treatments. Raising awareness about such diseases is vital for public health. The development of advanced drug delivery systems, particularly FDDS, represents a breakthrough in pharmaceutical sciences. Research continues to identify the most effective polymers for ensuring buoyancy and optimizing drug delivery. FDDS presents a promising solution to enhance drug bioavailability and improve overall treatment outcomes, offering substantial potential in the future of pharmaceutical therapies.