Polymer-based Vaginal Insert Systems: Engineering Controlled Drug Delivery for Women’s Health

Abstract

Polymer-based vaginal inserts have emerged as a promising approach for localized and systemic drug delivery, demonstrating improved therapeutic efficacy, prolonged drug residence, controlled release and enhanced patient compliance compared to conventional vaginal dosage forms. This article gives a complete overview of the design and development of polymer-based vaginal inserts, covering the influence of vaginal physiology, mucoadhesion and polymer selection on formulation performance. The properties and applications of natural, synthetic, and hybrid polymers, and current breakthroughs in fabrication technologies such as freeze-drying, solvent casting, hot-melt extrusion, electrospinning, and 3D printing are covered. Also examined are several drug release techniques such as sustained, swelling-controlled, stimuli-responsive and mucoadhesive systems. Moreover, the therapeutic potential of vaginal inserts for the treatment of vulvovaginal infections, endometriosis, cervical cancer, uterine fibroids, menopause-related illnesses, contraception and HIV prevention is emphasized. Finally, the future directions of emerging technologies, such as nanotechnology, smart polymers, artificial intelligence, and personalized drug delivery systems, are discussed for the clinical translation and enhanced efficacy of polymer-based vaginal drug delivery systems for women’s reproductive health.

Graphical Abstract