Oral Delivery of Anti-Diabetic Drugs Using Bio-Based Polymeric Nanoparticles: A Review of Recent Advances

Abstract

Oral delivery of anti-diabetic drugs, especially insulin, possesses enormous potential in the future of diabetes treatment. Various platforms and methods have been brought to light in the last decade as nanotechnology underwent a tremendous growth spurt. These systems focus on enhancing absorption, permeation, and bioavailability of active agents while overcoming physicochemical and biological barriers in the gastrointestinal tract. Formulations with bio-polymeric nanoparticles as delivery vehicles have received extensive attention owing to positive traits like biocompatibility, biodegradability, low immunogenicity, and low cost. In recent works, the focus has been given to systems with incorporated nano-sensors, site-specific targeting, and sustained, controlled, and stimuli-responsive release. In this article, we discuss the current state and future prospects of biopolymeric nanoparticulate systems for the oral delivery of anti-diabetic drugs.