Mucoadhesive Drug Delivery Systems

The demand for the polymeric matrices, both synthetic and natural, is clearly demonstrated by an examination of the numbers utilized, the large number of emerging manufacturers, and the growth in number of institutions and personnel involved in teaching and research activities. In recent years mucoadhesive drug delivery systems have gained increasing importance, since they adhere locally to mucosal surfaces. A variety of natural and synthetic polymers have been used in these delivery systems. But in the view of biodegradation and biocompatibility, the natural polymers are preferred. This book was focused to exploit and explore the new mucoadhesive agents from natural sources, based on the society interest, economic interest and natural interest with improved efficacy as well as less adverse side effects.