A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON PHARMACEUTICAL POLYMERS AND THEIR ROLE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CONTROLLED RELEASE DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS

Abstract

Polymers are essential components in the development of controlled release drug delivery systems because of their unique physicochemical, biodegradable, and biocompatible properties. They enhance drug stability, solubility, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy while minimizing dosing frequency and adverse effects. This review discusses the classification of polymers based on their mechanism of action, biodegradability, release kinetics, processing methods, and pharmaceutical applications. Key polymer properties, including molecular weight, hydrophobicity, crosslinking density, thermal behavior, chemical stability, mechanical strength, and pH responsiveness, are highlighted for their influence on drug release profiles. The review also emphasizes the role of natural and synthetic polymers in designing advanced dosage forms for oral, transdermal, injectable, ophthalmic, nasal, pulmonary, and implantable drug delivery systems. Recent advances in polymer technology have enabled the development of targeted, site- specific, and stimuli-responsive drug delivery platforms. Overall, polymers remain indispensable materials for improving formulation performance, patient compliance, and the future of personalized pharmaceutical therapies.