GREEN PHARMACY: THE RISE OF NATURAL AND BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERS IN ADVANCED ORAL SUSTAINED-RELEASE DRUG DELIVERY

Oral sustained-release (SR) systems are pivotal for managing chronic diseases by improving patient compliance.Conventional synthetic polymers, however, present environmental and biocompatibility concerns, creating a need for sustainable alternatives.This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in using natural and biodegradable polymers for oral SR delivery, covering their classification, mechanisms, and applications.Key advantages like biocompatibility and mucoadhesion are discussed, highlighting their successful use in matrix tablets, gastroretentive systems, and colon-targeted delivery.Natural polymers represent a promising future for safer, patient-centric therapies.