Long-Acting Antimalarial Drug Delivery Systems for Chemoprophylaxis: Formulation Strategies and Routes of Administration.

BACKGROUND

Malaria chemoprophylaxis generally requires prolonged and frequent administration of antimalarial drugs, which often results in poor patient adherence and reduced prophylactic effectiveness.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to summarize the advancements in long-acting drug delivery systems developed for antimalarial chemoprophylaxis and highlights recent clinical developments in this field.

METHODS

Various formulation approaches reported in the literature for sustained antimalarial drug release were reviewed, including oral, parenteral, and topical long-acting delivery systems. Strategies such as gelatin capsules, solid drug nanoparticles, oil-based solutions, implants, polymeric nanorods, lipid-based depot systems, in situ-forming gels, microspheres, and microneedle-based delivery systems were evaluated.

RESULTS

Long-acting antimalarial delivery systems have demonstrated significant potential in minimizing dosing frequency, improving patient adherence, and enhancing prophylactic effectiveness. Various formulation strategies have shown the ability to provide sustained drug release and prolonged protection against malaria.

CONCLUSION

Long-acting drug delivery systems represent a promising strategy for improving malaria chemoprophylaxis by overcoming adherence-related challenges associated with conventional dosing regimens. Continued research and clinical advancements in sustained-release antimalarial formulations may significantly contribute to the development of effective antimalarial drug delivery systems for successful chemoprophylactic therapy.