ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to highlight the application of cyclodextrins in topical drug delivery and how their benefits can be modified through the formulation of multi-cyclodextrin entities. Topical delivery systems are one of the most popular applications of controlled, encapsulated drug delivery platforms. Multi-cyclodextrin entities are amphiphilic cyclodextrin derivatives that are formed through the assembly of cyclodextrin molecules. They possess unique mechanical and stimuli-responsive properties and significant drug encapsulation and controlled release features. Carboxylated Cyclodextrin-based nanosponges have been synthesized and used in the oral delivery of acyclovir, an antiviral drug used to treat herpes simplex virus. Cyclodextrin-based polymers were the first of the supramolecular architectures to be fabricated. They are chemically linked cyclodextrin molecules produced using cross-linking agents such as epichlorohydrin or modification with other polymers. Polyrotaxanes are synthesized through the threading of cyclodextrin molecules on linear inclusion compounds and/or the rotaxanation of pseudopolyrotaxanes.
