SELF-EMULSIFYING DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS (SEDDS): FORMULATION DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTERIZATION, AND APPLICATIONS

Self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) represent a revolutionary advancement in enhancing the oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. These isotropic mixtures of oils, surfactants, and co-solvents, upon mild agitation in gastrointestinal fluids, form fine oil-in-water emulsions or micro/nanoemulsions. By circumventing limitations such as hepatic first-pass metabolism and poor solubility, SEDDS facilitate lymphatic absorption and improved pharmacokinetic profiles. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the formulation strategies, characterization techniques, and critical applications of SEDDS. Advances in globule size determination, thermodynamic stability, and drug encapsulation efficiency are discussed. The paper also highlights experimental techniques used for bioavailability assessment and explores the future prospects and challenges in translating SEDDS from bench to market.