Table 3.

A comparison of nanocrystal-, nanoemulsion- and polymeric micelle-based nanonization approaches for delivery of poorly water-soluble compounds

Approach	Advantages	Disadvantages
Polymeric micelles	Improved controlled release functions Multifunctional design possible Suitable for intravenous administration	Lack of stability in blood Limited number of polymers for use Lack of suitable methods for scale-up
Nanocrystal	Well-understood and established manufacturing techniques Excellent reproducibility Applicable to drugs with different solubility profiles Suitable for oral administration	Requires high energy input that drives up cost Needs further modification to ensure stability Lack of controlled release functions
Nanoemulsion	Low cost of production Suitable for various routes of administration High drug loading achievable	Tendency to flocculate and coalescent Lack of stability in blood Lack of controlled release functions