Table 5.

Advantages of using nanoparticles as a drug delivery system [72].

Particle size and surface characteristics of nanoparticles can be easily manipulated to achieve both passive and active drug targeting after various routes of administration. Nanoparticles control and sustain the release of the drug during the transportation and at the site of localization, altering organ distribution of the drug and subsequent clearance of the drug so as to achieve an increase in drug therapeutic efficacy and a reduction in side effects. Controlled release and particle degradation characteristics can be readily modulated by the choice of matrix constituents. Drug loading is relatively high and drugs can be incorporated into the systems without any chemical reaction; this is an important factor for preserving the drug activity. Site-specific targeting can be achieved by attaching targeting ligands to the surfaces of particles or by using magnetic guidance. The system can be used for various routes of administration including oral, nasal, parenteral, intra-ocular, etc.