SELF EMULSIFYING DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS: AN APPROACH TO MODIFY DRUG PERFORMANCE

Self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) are methods that have been proven to work by increasing the solubility and bioavailability of insoluble substances. There are two types: self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) and self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS). SEDDS and its isotropic mixtures contain oils, surfactants and sometimes solvents. The ability of these formulations and methods to produce thin oily liquids (o/w) after mixing and dissolution in the aqueous phase in the digestive tract makes it a promising approach for lipophilic drugs with limited absorption. An important feature of this system for lipophilic drugs is the ability to form oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions or microemulsions after dispersion in the aqueous phase through the digestive tract, indicating limited absorption of the dispersion. SEDDS may be a promising strategy to increase the rate and extent of oral absorption. Insulin, beta-lactamase, cyclosporine, ritonavir, valproic acid, bexarotene, clofazimine, dronabinol, ibuprofen, and calcitriol can be formulated using SEDDS using various combinations of surfactants and cosurfactants. This article provides an overview of SEDDS, including advantages, mechanisms of SEDDS, and different formulation approaches. SEDDS design methodology and SEDDS evaluation.