Poly(lactic acid)/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) particulate carriers for pulmonary drug delivery

摘要

Background Pulmonary route is an attractive target for both systemic and local drug delivery, with the advantages of a large surface area, rich blood supply, and absence of first-pass metabolism. Numerous polymeric micro/nanoparticles have been designed and studied for controlled and targeted drug delivery to the lung. Area covered Among the natural and synthetic polymers for polymeric particles, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) have been widely used for the delivery of anti-cancer agents, anti-inflammatory drugs, vaccines, peptides, and proteins because of their highly biocompatible and biodegradable properties. This review focuses on the characteristics of PLA/PLGA particles as carriers of drugs for efficient delivery to the lung. Furthermore, the manufacturing techniques of the polymeric particles, and their applications for inhalation therapy were discussed. Expert opinion Compared to other carriers including liposomes, PLA/PLGA particles present a high structural integrity providing enhanced stability, higher drug loading, and prolonged drug release. Adequately designed and engineered polymeric particles can contribute to a desirable pulmonary drug delivery characterized by a sustained drug release, prolonged drug action, reduction in the therapeutic dose, and improved patient compliance.