Microencapsulation using emulsification/solvent evaporation: an overview of techniques and applications.

Abstract

This review describes the microencapsulation of pharmaceuticals using the technique of emulsification-solvent evaporation. Guidelines are given for development of encapsulation processes for drugs with either high or low aqueous solubilities. Methods for microsphere characterization and assessment are detailed. The properties of a range of encapsulating polymers are described with examples of drugs encapsulated. The article concludes by speculating the clinical potential of microsphere-based drug delivery systems.