Beyond Syringes and Pills: Advances in Drug Delivery Systems for Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and its prevalence is increasing. The two primary subtypes, type 1 and 2, have different causes and mechanisms, but both result in abnormal glucose metabolism. The standard of care for diabetes includes insulin therapy, oral anti-diabetic medications, diet, exercise, weight loss, and frequent self-monitoring of blood glucose levels. However, these treatments have limitations that can lead to poor patient compliance and suboptimal outcomes. Alternative insulin delivery systems such as inhalers, patches, and oral sprays offer potential benefits such as increased convenience, reduced pain, and improved adherence. Non-insulin injectables, long-acting basal insulins, and GLP-1 agonists have also shown promise in improving glycemic control and reducing the risk of complications. Nanoparticle-based systems like SLNs are a novel approach that offers several advantages for diabetic management. They allow for targeted drug delivery, controlled release, and improved biocompatibility, enhancing drug efficacy and reducing side effects. SLNs have shown potential in animal models for reducing extracellular matrix degradation, inhibiting carbohydrate digestive enzymes, and enhancing the regeneration of insulin-producing beta cells. More studies are needed to validate their safety and efficacy in humans, but the potential benefits of SLNs make them a promising option for diabetes management.