Long-acting drug delivery systems: Current landscape and future prospects

Abstract

Conventional drug delivery often leads to fluctuating drug levels and reduced efficacy, especially in chronic conditions requiring sustained treatment. Long-acting drug delivery systems (LADDS) offer controlled, extended release, improving efficacy, safety, and patient adherence. This mini review outlines current injectable and implantable LADDS, including approved formulations like nanosuspensions, PLGA microspheres, oil-based injections, in situ-forming and preformed implants. Future directions explore thermoresponsive gels, polymer-drug conjugates, prodrugs, 3D printing, and reservoir-type implants using semipermeable membranes. These innovations highlight the need for continued multidisciplinary collaboration to advance next-generation long-acting therapies.