Smart polymer matrices for on-demand drug release: Recent progress and challenges

Smart polymer matrices have emerged as promising platforms for achieving on-demand drug release, offering precise control over drug delivery in response to various stimuli. Traditional drug delivery systems often have disadvantages like non-specific release kinetics and lack of control over release of drugs, necessitating the development of more sophisticated approaches. Smart polymer matrices present an innovative solution by responding to specific stimuli, including pH, light, enzymes, temperature and magnetic fields, to trigger drug release at targeted sites and times. The review summarizes the traditional drug delivery systems. It then provides an overview of smart polymer matrices, discussing various types of stimuli-responsive polymers and mechanisms of stimuli-induced drug release. The article also delves into the applications of smart polymer matrices in anti-anginal drug delivery, discussing the rationale behind their use in angina treatment, presenting case studies of on-demand drug release, and reviewing in vivo and in vitro studies evaluating effectiveness. Furthermore, challenges and limitations associated with smart polymer matrices, including stability issues, biocompatibility concerns, and scalability challenges, are discussed. The article outlines future perspectives and opportunities in the field, including emerging technologies, potential for personalized medicine, and integration with other drug delivery platforms, emphasizing significance of continued development and advance in this rapidly evolving field.