Microsponge: A Stable Microscopic Polymeric Delivery System

Microsponge is polymeric delivery system and a drug carrier which have tiny microscopic structure with a larger porous surface. These are micro-sized particle with average diameter of 5-30 micron. The pores of a microsponge are used for entrapment of drug. These are newer technologies which have been used to control the release of medicament from formulation and also it precises the drug in targeted delivery. Microsponges have several advantages like improved stability, extended release, improved bioavailability and précised drug targeting makes it a better carrier for drug than the conventional nanocarrier like liposome. Microsponges are formulated by various approaches in which quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method. In this two phases (1) Internal organic phase (2) External aqueous phase are prepared separately. The organic phase contains drug and solvent (ethanol) with polymer (1-5% w/v) and outer phase contains water with surfactant (PVA) (0.1-1%w/v). The internal phase is added drop-wise to external phase with high speed continuous stirring that formulate porous microsponge after evaporation. Due to higher ranges of temperature tolerance up-to 130oC and Ph stability from 1-11, micrsponge are suitable opportunity for preparing stable formulation of wide range of drug categories. Microsponges were widely used in various drug deliveries like oral, drug delivery, topical drug delivery with uses in diseases like acne, diabetic wound healing, psoriasis, fungal infection, cancer etc.