Non-Ionic Surfactants (NIOs) in Niosome Drug Delivery: In-Depth Review on Clinical Trials, Patents in Tuberculosis (TB) and Oncology

Abstract: Niosomes (Niosomes), as Non-Ionic Surfactant (NIOs)-based vesicles, have emerged as versatile nanocarriers in the targeted delivery of drugs due to their biocompatibility, chemical stability, and ability to encapsulate both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs. Their utility has gained significant traction in addressing challenges associated with conventional therapies, for chronic and resistant diseases, Tuberculosis (TB), and cancer. This review critically evaluates the role of NIOs in the formulation of Niosomes, emphasizing their influence on clinical efficacy, pharma-cokinetics, and targeted drug delivery. It also explores the emerging patent landscape and transla-tional potential of Niosomes systems in TB and oncology. A comprehensive literature and patent database search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Elsevier, SpringerLink, and ClinicalTrials.gov, as well as Google Patents, USPTO, and WIPO, covering publications and patents from 20202025 onwards. The relevant studies, clinical trials, and granted patents involving Niosomes formulations with NIOs were systematically analyzed for their for-mulation design, therapeutic outcomes, and disease-specific applications. The study showed a no-table rise in research and patents on Niosomes drug delivery using NIOs categories. In TB, these systems enhanced Bioavailability (BA), sustained drug release, and targeted macrophages. In cancer therapy, they enabled controlled release, minimized side effects, and improved tumor tar-geting. The recent patents highlight advances in combination therapies, responsive systems, and ligand-based targeting, reflecting a trend toward personalized medicine. NIOs play a critical role in modulating the performance of Niosomes drug carriers. Their strategic application in TB and oncology represents a promising avenue for improving therapeutic outcomes. Continued research and innovation in this field, as reflected by patent trends, highlight the translational potential of NIO-based Niosomes formulations toward clinical use.