Nanoformulation mediated transdermal delivery of anti-diabetic drugs: an updated review

Diabetes mellitus is a concern of disorder globally and which is increasing continuously. Diabetic complications lead to physical, mental and societal issues to patients. Oral medications are being prescribed but these have problems like frequent dosing, side effects and non-patient compliance. Insulin therapy is also problematic due to injectable route of delivery. Dose missing of these treatments lead to fluctuations in blood glucose levels which cause severe adverse effects. Recent developments have shown the potential of transdermal drug administration in association with nanoformulations for improving the efficacy and safety of anti-diabetic medications. Nanotechnology offers modification of size and surface characteristics of nanocarriers which enhances the drug permeation through biological barriers. Transdermal drug delivery in conjunction with nanocarriers provide enhanced permeation, improved bioavailability and sustained effect with reduction in adverse effects. This article first presents the current scenarios of diabetes mellitus and important aspects of transdermal drug delivery systems. In later sections, a detailed description (pharmaceutical and preclinical characteristics) of various nanoformulation assisted transdermal drug delivery systems (polymeric nanoparticles, ethosomes, nanostructured lipid carriers, solid lipid nanoparticles, microemulsions, liposomes, niosomes, nanoemulsions, transethosomes and transfersomes) have been reviewed. Transdermal drug delivery in conjunction with nanoformulations can be utilized for the better management and control of diabetes.