A tale of two vesicles: Niosomes vs proniosomes: comparitive review

Niosomes and proniosomes, vesicular carriers composed of non-ionic surfactants, have gained significant attention in drug delivery due to their biocompatibility, versatility, and potential for targeted drug delivery. This comparative review delves into the structural, functional, and application aspects of these promising delivery systems. Niosomes are self-assembled, spherical vesicles with a bilayer membrane composed of non-ionic surfactants, often incorporating cholesterol for structural stability. Proniosomes, on the other hand, are precursor to niosomes, existing as dry, lamellar structures that hydrate to form niosomes upon contact with aqueous media. This review highlights the distinct characteristics of niosomes and proniosomes, including their formation mechanisms, size distribution, encapsulation efficiency, and release profiles. We delve into the advantages and limitations of each system, comparing their stability, drug loading capacity, and potential for targeted drug delivery. Furthermore, this review explores the diverse applications of niosomes and proniosomes in various therapeutic fields, including topical drug delivery, transdermal drug delivery, and vaccine development. The review concludes by highlighting current research trends and future directions in the field, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to enhance the efficacy and safety of these promising drug delivery platforms. By comparing the advantages of niosomes and proniosomes, this review provides a comprehensive overview of these systems for researchers and practitioners seeking innovative approaches to drug delivery.