Metronidazole delivery strategies: Optimizing cancer therapy through novel approaches for enhanced delivery, cytotoxicity, and side effect reduction

Abstract

Metronidazole (MTZ) is a vital antimicrobial agent widely used in the treatment of various infections. However, its limited bioavailability and associated side effects necessitate the development of efficient drug delivery systems to enhance therapeutic efficacy and minimize adverse reactions. The field of nanotechnology and nanomaterials presents promising solutions for delivering MTZ, leveraging their unique properties to overcome these challenges. This comprehensive review explores a variety of nanomaterial-based approaches for MTZ delivery, emphasizing the benefits such as improved drug stability, targeted release, and enhanced bioavailability. Various nanocarrier systems, including polymeric nanoparticles, lipid-based nanocarriers, and inorganic nanoparticles, are evaluated for their potential in MTZ delivery applications. The review underscores strategies aimed at reducing MTZ's side effects through controlled release and targeted delivery, with nanocarriers facilitating sustained drug release to minimize fluctuations in drug concentrations and potentially mitigate adverse reactions linked to MTZ administration. Furthermore, innovative combination therapies involving MTZ and other drugs are investigated for their ability to enhance therapeutic outcomes and combat drug resistance. Co-delivery systems show promise in synergistically targeting infections while reducing overall dosage and associated side effects. By summarizing the latest advancements in MTZ delivery, this review provides valuable insights into the potential of nanotechnology-based strategies for optimizing MTZ therapy. These approaches have the potential to transform drug delivery, offering safer and more effective treatments for infectious diseases, and improving patient outcomes by reducing adverse effects.