ABSTRACT
The ultimate goal of drug delivery is to maximize the therapeutic efficacy of drugs and minimize side effects. Targeted and controlled drug delivery systems (DDSs) are the best candidates for the goal because of their ability to deliver the necessary amount of drug to the targeted site and realize appropriate drug release from dosage form, both precisely and efficiently. Carrier materials are of critical importance for the efficient development of DDSs. In this chapter, we focus on high-performance drug carriers along with recent research in the construction of targeted and controlled drug delivery systems. First, we introduce advanced materials fabricated for targeted and controlled DDSs with special emphasis on their advantages and limitations. Several kinds of targeted and controlled DDSs through common routes of administration, including oral, intravenous, and transdermal routes, are highlighted. In addition, the techniques utilized in micro and nanoscale production of these DDSs are summarized. At the end, the future prospects of this field are discussed.
