Reconceptualising mucoadhesion for future medicines†

The field of mucoadhesion has grown from a niche interest to a central consideration for the optimisation of mucosal medicines. As new therapies progress through development pipelines there are constantly emerging conditions which would benefit from the ability to target prolonged residence at mucosal sites. As such, there continues to be expansive investigation into mucoadhesion and the design of novel mucoadhesive materials for dosage form design. In this perspective piece, we give consideration to the recent progress in the field of mucoadhesive materials and make suggestion for reconsideration of current focus. Opinion on risks around current approaches to the development of mucoadhesive materials are described. Furthermore, challenges with translation are discussed, focussing on sensitisation and incompatibilities. Finally, the state of data in this field is critically assessed with a focus to in vitro–in vivo correlation and the formulation state space. It is intended that this manuscript challenges some important areas currently under investigation in the field.