Physics

Nanotechnology

Microemulsion

Chemistry

Materials science

Drug delivery

Drug

Solubilization

Quantum mechanics

Biochemistry

Pulmonary surfactant

Medicine

Surface tension

Pharmacology

Frontiers in Nanotechnology

Microemulsions, comprising oil, water and a surfactant, in association with some co-surfactant, are thermodynamically stable systems. They have found applications in a large number of chemical and pharmacological processes due to their unique properties such as large interfacial area, low interfacial tension, and most importantly, the ability to solubilize and deliver hydrophobic drugs. In addition to the oral and intravenous route, they are suitable for drug delivery through the ophthalmic, vaginal, pulmonary, dental, and topical routes. This review highlights the properties and several recent developments in the use of microemulsions for medical treatment purposes including targeted drug delivery.

Microemulsions: Unique Properties, Pharmacological Applications, and Targeted Drug Delivery