Asian Journal of Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences

When it comes to cancer treatment, chemotherapy is most frequently used in conjunction with surgery or radiation therapy. Nevertheless, it is well recognized that chemotherapy’s off-target effects might result in adverse consequences and dose-limiting toxicities. The use of new delivery systems for cancer treatment that are based on natural and synthetic polymers and have improved pharmacokinetic and therapeutic potential has increased dramatically in the last ten years. Through a variety of processes, such as internal loading, chemical conjugation, physical adsorption, and enhanced and prolonged circulation, polymers can increase transport, enable selective targeting, and offer the controlled release of cargos. Biodegradable, biocompatible, and physicochemically stable polymers are notably thought to be the best delivery vehicles. Despite the challenges, this bio-inspired technology promises a promising future for efficient medication delivery. This review focuses on the obstacles that affect the effectiveness of chemotherapy medication delivery and the latest advancements utilizing natural and synthetic polymers as platforms to enhance cancer treatment drug delivery.