A REVIEW ON GASTRORETENTIVE DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS (GRDDS)

Gastroretentive Drug Delivery Systems (GRDDS) represent a pivotal pharmaceutical strategy aimed at prolonging the residence time of a dosage form within the stomach. This review synthesizes the comprehensive research landscape of GRDDS, focusing on the underlying rationale, diverse technological mechanisms, influential physiological factors, and emerging technologies. The necessity for GRDDS is rooted in overcoming biological limitations, specifically targeting drugs with a narrow absorption window (NAW) in the proximal small intestine and providing sustained local therapy for gastric diseases.[1,2] We detail the principle mechanisms—including buoyancy (floating systems), adhesion (mucoadhesive systems), and physical expansion (swelling systems)—elucidating the formulation science and polymer selection critical to each.[4,12] Furthermore, the impact of physiological variability, particularly the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) and the fed/fasting state, on in vivo performance is critically assessed.[6] Finally, we explore the future trajectory of GRDDS, highlighting advances in 3D printing and smart material design that promise to enhance clinical predictability and patient-centric delivery (90, 100). This review serves as an authoritative reference, integrating findings from over a hundred key publications (References 1–100) to guide future research and clinical translation in this dynamic field.