Self-microemulsifying delivery system for improving bioavailability of water insoluble drugs

摘要

Self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) is a uniform and transparent solution consisting of oil phase, surfactant, co-surfactant, and a small amount of water. It could be orally administered under gastrointestinal peristalsis and spontaneously dispersed to form an oil-in-water microemulsion with typical particle sizes lower than 100 nm. The microemulsion forms a hydration layer that easily passes through the gastrointestinal wall, which increases the permeability to intestinal epithelial cells, thereby increasing the solubility of poorly soluble drugs and significantly improving bioavailability. This paper mainly introduces the main factors of improving bioavailability of microemulsion delivery system, the application of SMEDDS, and the characteristics of SMEDDS in vivo and in vitro. Finally, it summarizes the current prospects of SMEDDS in this field and the challenges ahead.