A Review on Advances in Mucoadhesive drug delivery Technology: Theories of Mucoadhesion, Polymers, Evaluation, and Clinical Applications

The effectiveness of drugs can be enhanced by creating innovative delivery methods, including Mucoadhesive drug delivery systems (MDDS) offer a novel approach for delivering medications via oral routes like the buccal, sublingual, and gingival regions. These systems utilize either natural or synthetic polymers to maintain adhesion to the mucus layer and mucin present on the mucosal epithelial surface, thereby prolonging the retention of a dosage form at a specific location and regulating its drug release is particularly advantageous for maintaining consistent plasma drug levels and enhancing bioavailability. Administering such formulations to mucosal surfaces can be especially beneficial for drugs that are unsuitable for traditional oral delivery, such as those that degrade in acidic environments or are subject to significant first-pass metabolism.  This review covers the core principles of buccal patch development, including the selection of suitable polymers, preparation methods, advantages, challenges, and the latest research trends in this field. Special focus is given to how these systems enhance patient adherence and enable targeted therapy.