ADVANCEMENTS AND CHALLENGES IN GASTRO-RETENTIVE DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS

Subhasish Saha, Anil P. Sao, Jagjot Gautam, Vikas Kumar Roy and Amrit Paul*

This article examines the development, operation, applications, and future prospects of gastro-retentive drug delivery systems (GRDDS). GRDDS are designed to prolong the half-life of a drug in the stomach, thereby increasing its bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy, particularly for drugs absorbed in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Among the various GRDDS types whose formulation processes, methods of evaluation, and clinical uses are covered are floating, bioadhesive, swelling, and expandable systems. The review highlights the challenges of developing effective GRDDSs, such as ensuring system biocompatibility and controlling drug release characteristics. Future advancements in GRDDS technology are also being researched in an attempt to improve patient compliance and treatment outcomes.