Potential applications of carbomer in oral mucoadhesive controlled drug delivery system: A review

Carbomers are extensively being used in controlled drug delivery systems (C DDS). They are also finding numerous applications in oral mucoadhesive drug delivery because of their ability to interact with the mucus glycoprotein and to remain localized to a specific site. The present review aims at givi ng an insight into the potential application of carbomers in mucoadhesive C DDS. This review deals with the physicochemical properties of carbomers and various mechanisms of mucoadhesion. The mechanism for the release of the d rug, both water soluble and water insoluble, is discussed. The use of carbo mers in oral delivery of peptides or protein-based drugs is also covered.