CYCLODEXTRINS: AN EXCIPIENT TOOL IN DRUG DELIVERY

Abstract

Cyclodextrins (CDs) are a family of compounds consist of glucose monomers arranged in a donut shape ring. They are non-reducing, crystalline cyclic oligosaccharides which proximate a truncated core generating a hydrophilic outer surface and a lipophilic interior cavity that offers interaction with appropriately sized molecules to result in the formation of inclusion complex. Cyclodextrins are able to form host-guest complexes with hydrophobic molecules given the unique nature imparted by their structure. As a result, these molecules have found a number of applications in a wide range of fields. The proposed review explores the various techniques used and advantages for the formation of inclusion complex. The CDs have a wide range of applications in different areas of drug delivery and pharmaceutical industry due to their use as complexing agent to increase the aqueous solubility of poor soluble drugs and to increase their bioavailability and stability. The article also highlights extensive use of CDs as a polymer in the design of various novel delivery systems like liposomes, microspheres, nanoparticles that can be expected to improve the therapeutic efficacy of drug and patient compliance. The objective of this contribution is to point out the inherent use of chemically modified cyclodextrins as high performance drug carriers in drug delivery systems with emphasis on the current developments. Thus, CDs because of their continuing ability to find several novel applications in drug delivery are expected to solve many problems associated with the delivery of different novel drugs through different delivery routes