NIOSOMAL DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM-A REVIEW

Article history Received 15 Aug 2012 Available online 30 Sep 2012 Niosomes are microscopic non-ionic surfactant vesicles formed by the self assembly of non-ionic surfactant. Niosomal drug delivery poses a promising novel drug delivery approach. Niosomes and liposomes have similar physical properties but differ in the chemical nature. Niosomal vesicle is formed by non-ionic surfactants whereas liposomal vesicles of lipids. Niosomes are superior to liposomes because of higher chemical stability of surfactants than lipids. This review article focuses on the concept of niosomes, advantages and disadvantages, composition, method of preparation, factors influencing the niosomal formulation and characterization, application of niosomes. Niosomes can be utilized in the treatment of several diseases like Psoriasis, leishmaniasis, cancer, migraine, Parkinson etc. Niosomes can be used as diagnostic aid. Various methods of niosomal administration include intramuscular, intravenous, peroral and transdermal. Niosomal technology is widely used in cosmetics. Still researchers have to focus a lot on the commercial utility of niosomes in drug delivery.