World Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology
Open Access

Parenteral delivery; Vascularization; Drug absorption; Localized therapy; Gynecological conditions; Sexually transmitted infections; Mucoadhesion

Introduction

Vaginal drug delivery stands at the forefront of pharmaceutical innovation, offering a unique and promising avenue for the administration of therapeutics tailored to women’s health needs. With its rich vascularization, permeability, and proximity to target tissues, the vaginal route presents an ideal site for drug absorption, enabling localized therapy while minimizing systemic side effects. The importance of vaginal drug delivery is underscored by its relevance in addressing a wide array of gynecological conditions, reproductive health disorders, and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) [1]. From the treatment of vaginal infections and contraceptive delivery to the prevention of HIV transmission, the vaginal route holds immense potential for improving women’s health outcomes globally. Unlike conventional routes such as oral or parenteral delivery, vaginal drug delivery offers several distinct advantages. Its non-invasive nature, ease of administration, and avoidance of first-pass metabolism contribute to patient convenience and compliance [2].

Description

Vaginal drug delivery is a method of administering medications directly into the vaginal cavity for systemic or localized effects. This route of drug administration offers several advantages:

Localized treatment

Vaginal drug delivery allows for targeted treatment of conditions affecting the reproductive system, such as vaginal infections, sexually transmitted diseases, or conditions like vaginal dryness or atrophy [3, 4].

Reduced systemic side effects

By delivering drugs directly to the target site, vaginal drug delivery can minimize systemic side effects compared to oral or parenteral routes of administration [5].

Enhanced bioavailability

Some drugs may have better absorption and bioavailability when administered vaginally due to the rich blood supply and large surface area of the vaginal mucosa [6, 7].

Convenience and patient compliance Vaginal drug delivery may be more convenient and acceptable to patients compared to other routes, especially for medications requiring frequent administration [8].

Rapid onset of action

Depending on the drug formulation, vaginal delivery can lead to rapid onset of action due to the direct absorption into the bloodstream or local tissues. Common drug formulations used for vaginal drug delivery include creams, gels, foams, suppositories, tablets, and rings. These formulations may contain active pharmaceutical ingredients along with excipients to optimize drug release, absorption, and stability [9, 10].

Conclusion

Vaginal drug delivery is utilized not only for reproductive health but also for other medical conditions. For instance, it’s been explored for delivering drugs like hormones, contraceptives, antifungals, and even certain systemic medications like opioids for pain management. However, it’s crucial to note that proper formulation design and consideration of factors such as vaginal pH, mucosal permeability, and patient acceptability are essential for the success of vaginal drug delivery systems. Additionally, individual variability in vaginal anatomy and physiology may affect drug absorption and efficacy. Therefore, careful evaluation and customization of formulations may be necessary to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.

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