Transformation in Pharmacy: Empowering Future Generations of Pharmacists at 2nd ICCPPR-2025

ABSTRACT NO:ICCPPR-SPS-234 NOVEL APPROACHES IN VIGINAL DRUG DELIVERY: PROSPECTS FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH ¹*N. GOPIKA SRI, ²*Dr. D. AKILADEVI, ³*Dr. P. SHANMUGASUNDARAM ¹* Student,, M.Pharmacy, Department of pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, VISTAS ²* Professor and Head, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, VISTAS ³* Dean, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, VISTAS.
Abstract Vaginal drug delivery has emerged as a promising route due to several advantages, including rich blood supply, avoidance of first-pass metabolism, reduced systemic side effects, and potential for sustained release. Initially used mainly for contraception and local treatment with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral drugs, its scope has expanded with innovations. Microbicides have shown effectiveness against sexually transmitted infections, and hormone therapies benefit from the vagina’s large surface area and high permeability. Common agents administered vaginally include contraceptives, prostaglandins, steroids, and antimicrobials, delivered as tablets, suppositories, gels, creams, ointments, and rings. Despite its potential, challenges such as slow drug dissolution, short residence time, and variations in pH limit effectiveness. To overcome these, mucoadhesive polymers and advanced systems like hydrogels and lipid nanoparticles are being developed to improve absorption and prolong retention. Studies suggest that drugs like insulin and human growth hormone demonstrate superior absorption through this route compared to other parenteral methods. Standardized in vitro and in vivo evaluation remains essential to optimize formulations and expand therapeutic applications of vaginal delivery. Keywords: Bacterial infection, cervical cancer, human immunodeficiency virus, therapy, vaginal drug delivery