Advances in Drug Delivery System Designs and Therapeutics

The field of drug delivery has experienced significant advancements in the design of novel carrier systems, alternative administration routes, and innovative therapeutic strategies. This Editorial provides an overview of the recent contributions to drug delivery research, including transdermal patches, liposome-based carriers, hydrogels, and innovative therapeutic formulations.

Innovations such as opioid transdermal patches, nanoemulsions for antimicrobial applications, and functionalized nanodiamonds for cancer therapy highlight the shift toward personalized medicine and improved therapeutic outcomes [1,2,3]. In this context, the mathematical modeling of drug release kinetics has played a fundamental role in enhancing formulation designs and ensuring predictable pharmacokinetics. Additionally, 3D-printed drug delivery systems demonstrate the potential for patient-specific treatments through controlled release profiles. Advances in glucose monitoring technology further emphasize the intersection of drug delivery with digital health solutions and remote sensing. The reviewed studies underscore the growing impact of nanotechnology and bioengineered materials in controlled drug delivery, highlighting a promising path toward effective and patient-centered therapies. Future research should focus on integrating artificial intelligence, computational modeling, and sustainable biomaterials to refine drug delivery capabilities. These developments are currently shaping the future of pharmaceutical sciences, offering more targeted, efficient, and safe drug administration methods.

Transdermal patches emerged as an effective method for administering opioids to patients with chronic pain [4,5,6]. On this topic, De Marco’s study highlights the use of fentanyl and buprenorphine in patch formulations, emphasizing the benefits of sustained drug release and reduced gastrointestinal side effects [7]. The research discusses the different features of reservoir and matrix patch designs and suggests that patient-specific factors, such as age and site of application, should guide the choice of formulation.

Silva explores the development of hydrogels [8,9,10,11,12] incorporating cellulose nanocrystals that are loaded with vitamins, aimed at addressing vitamin D deficiency and associated health conditions [13]. These hydrogels demonstrated high biocompatibility and efficient controlled release properties, making them suitable for applications in dermatology and systemic dietary supplements.

Liposomes have been widely studied for their well-recognized potential in targeted drug delivery [14,15]. Ilić-Stojanović et al. provide a comprehensive review of patented liposome formulations, highlighting their advantages in enhancing drug stability and bioavailability [16]. The study underscores the role of intellectual property in protecting and supporting innovation in pharmaceutical development.

A critical aspect of drug delivery research is the mathematical modeling of release kinetics. Trucillo presents a review of widely used empirical, semi-empirical, and theoretical mathematical models to describe drug release phenomena, examining the physical, chemical, and empirical meaning of each variable involved [17]. These models help to predict drug behavior in various formulations and optimize carrier design.

Being involved in drug delivery kinetic determination and prediction, Trucillo also provides an insightful description of his personal experience with discrete and continuous glucose monitoring systems for type 1 diabetes management [18]. This specific study highlights the advantages of automated insulin delivery (semi-automated artificial pancreas) in reducing glycemic variability and improving patients’ quality of life.

Sultan et al. introduce a novel palm-oil-based α-mangostin nanoemulsion for use as an antimicrobial endodontic irrigant [19]. These findings demonstrate efficacy against biofilms of Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Candida albicans, demonstrating the potential of this formulation as an alternative to conventional irrigation solutions in root canal therapy.

Agbo et al. present a redesigned quinine formulation using nanotechnology for intranasal administration, offering a promising alternative to oral quinine delivery [20]. The study shows that nanosuspensions significantly enhance drug permeation through nasal mucosa, potentially improving patient adherence and reducing gastrointestinal side effects.

Khalifa et al. investigated the development of a tea-tree-oil-based nanoemulgel loaded with azithromycin for enhanced antibacterial activity [21]. The paper demonstrates that nanoemulgels improve drug permeation and transdermal flux, providing a viable option for treating bacterial skin infections.

Zhu et al. review the role of antioxidants and drug carriers in promoting skin wound repair [22]. The study discusses the benefits of nanofibers and hydrogels in enhancing the protection and subsequent bioavailability of antioxidants, leading to improved wound healing outcomes.

Acuña-Aguilar et al. explore the application of functionalized nanodiamonds loaded with metformin in breast and ovarian cancer treatment [23]. Their study indicates enhanced cytotoxic effects and improved metformin delivery efficiency, highlighting the potential of nanodiamonds as promising carriers for anticancer agents.

Djilali et al. present a comprehensive stability analysis of haloperidol, focusing on its degradation under various stress conditions, including oxidation, hydrolysis, photolysis, and thermal exposure [24]. Using advanced chromatographic and thermal analytical techniques, the study identifies critical degradation pathways and highlights the importance of optimized formulation strategies to ensure pharmaceutical stability. The findings provide valuable insights into the chemical integrity of haloperidol, which is widely used for treating psychiatric disorders, thus influencing storage recommendations and formulation improvements.

Nascimento et al. developed 3D-printed filaments with pH-dependent solubility for controlled drug release applications [25]. By utilizing Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), the study demonstrates the feasibility of producing polymeric filaments that release drugs in a pH-specific receiving medium, aiming at achieving targeted gastrointestinal therapies. The research emphasizes the potential of 3D printing in personalized medicine, enabling the fabrication of patient-specific dosage forms with tunable drug release profiles.

The studies reviewed in this Editorial underscore the dynamic nature of drug delivery research and its impact on medical therapies. From personalized pain management to advanced cancer treatment strategies, these contributions reflect a collective effort to enhance drug efficacy, patient compliance, and treatment outcomes. Future research should continue to integrate nanotechnology, computational modeling, and sustainable materials to further refine drug delivery systems, thus improving human knowledge on these topics.