Niosomes: A promising approach for targeted drug delivery

Niosomes, also known as nonionic surfactant vesicles, are small lamellar structures that are created by combining nonionic surfactants from the alkyl or dialkyl polyglycerol ether category with cholesterol, and then hydrating them in water-based solutions. These are vesicle systems resembling liposomes that can be utilized as carriers for drugs that are both amphiphilic and lipophilic. The production process of niosomes is derived from liposome technology. The fundamental manufacturing method remains unchanged, wherein the lipid phase is hydrated by the aqueous phase. The lipid phase can consist of either a pure surfactant or a combination of surfactant and cholesterol. Niosomes effectively tackle the challenges associated with medication insolubility, instability, inadequate bioavailability, and fast degradation. The amphiphilic character of niosomes, which combines both hydrophilic and lipophilic properties, enhances their capacity to encapsulate medicines that are either hydrophilic or lipophilic. Cholesterol is frequently utilized as one of the ingredients. Preserving the stiffness of the niosome structure. The present article discusses the essential elements of niosomes, including their structural constituents, methods of manufacturing, and their uses in different disorders.