A Review on Novel Drug Delivery Systems in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disorder marked by cartilage degradation, pain, and inflammation, leading to reduced mobility and quality of life. Conventional treatments such as NSAIDs and corticosteroids often provide limited relief due to poor bioavailability and systemic side effects. Recent advances in novel drug delivery systems offer promising alternatives to overcome these challenges. Techniques including nanoparticles, liposomes, hydrogels, microneedles, and intraarticular formulations enable targeted and sustained drug release directly at the affected site, enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. These systems improve drug stability, prolong residence time, and ensure controlled delivery of anti-inflammatory and diseasemodifying agents. Among them, nanoparticle- and hydrogel-based systems have shown remarkable potential in preclinical studies. Overall, integrating such innovative delivery technologies could revolutionize osteoarthritis management by improving treatment outcomes, reducing dosing frequency, and enhancing patient compliance.