Abstract

NIOSOMES: A NOVEL DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM

*Jessy Shaji and Akshay Shah

Abstract

Vesicular systems are novel means of delivering drug in a controlled manner to enhance bioavailability and to get therapeutic effect over a long period of time. Niosomes are one such hydrated vesicular system containing non ionic surfactants along with cholesterol or other lipids delivering drug to targeted site which are non toxic, requiring less production cost, stable over a longer period of time in different conditions, hence overcomes drawbacks of liposomes. Present review describes history, all factors affecting niosome formulations, manufacturing conditions, characterization, stability, administration routes and also their comparison with liposome. This review also gives relevant information regarding various applications of niosomes in gene delivery, vaccine delivery, anticancer drug delivery, etc.

Keywords: Niosomes, Encapsulation, Surfactants, Vesicles.