This article reviews various polysaccharides used in transdermal drug delivery system. The system provides continuous controlled delivery of active ingredients through human skin and into the blood stream. Poor penetration of most drugs into the skin has led to numerous studies being conducted to increase the permeability of such drugs. Currently, the interest to utilize natural polysaccharides in transdermal formulations has increased as an alternative to the synthetic materials. Structure modification and polymer blending were carried out among polysaccharides and other materials in order to alter their functional properties. In some cases, the natural polymers provided better controlled release and drug permeation in comparison to the abilities of the synthetic materials. This review focuses on the physicochemical properties of polysaccharides and their effects on drug release profile, skin microstructure, and transdermal drug permeation. The limitations and future prospects of polysaccharides are also discussed.
Key words: Transdermal drug delivery system, polysaccharide, natural polymer, penetration enhancer, controlled release, drug permeation.
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