From Liquid to Solid: Unravelling the Magic of In-Situ Gels

Abstract

In situ gelling formulations are liquid at room temperature and transform into gels upon application to the body in response to various stimuli (e.g., pH, temperature, ionic composition). Incorporating drug nanoparticles into these systems enhances their biomedical utility by prolonging drug release, reducing dosing frequency, and improving patient outcomes. These formulations, particularly those with mucoadhesive polymers, offer promising potential for targeted drug delivery and prolonged drug retention at specific sites. A review of clinical properties of in situ gelling systems investigated over the past decade underscores their effectiveness and challenges in achieving optimal dosage forms.