Liposomes as New Approaches in the Treatment of Bacterial and Parasitic Infections in Domestic Animals

Abstract

Parasitic infections and bacterial infections, especially those caused by bacteria resistant to antimicrobial agents, are known to provide high morbidity and mortality rates in domestic animals worldwide. The drugs used in the treatment of these infections may present toxicity and low bioavailability, delaying the recovery process of these animals. In this context, nanotechnology appears as a new approach for the development of new effective pharmaceutical dosage forms of these drugs, aiming a better biodistribution and decrease of adverse events. Nanocarriers, such as liposomes, have great potential for the delivery of bioactive substances due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability and low toxicity. Liposomes can be used in a variety of fields, including veterinary medicine, and have made great strides in recent decades. Thus, the present study aims to highlight the main and most recent scientific discoveries about the promising potential of liposomes as nanocarriers of drugs in the treatment of parasitic and bacterial infections in domestic animals.