Pharmacosomal Drug Delivery Systems: A Pharmaceutics Perspective

Pharmacosomes are an emerging vesicular drug delivery system formed by covalent conjugation of drugs with phospholipids, resulting in amphiphilic drug–lipid complexes. This unique structure enables Pharmacosomes to self-assemble into vesicular systems in aqueous media and significantly improves the solubility, dissolution rate, permeability, and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. Unlike conventional liposomes, Pharmacosomes exhibit higher drug loading, improved stability, and minimal drug leakage due to the chemical bonding between drug and lipid. Various preparation methods such as solvent evaporation, ether injection, refluxing, and hand-shaking techniques have been explored to develop Pharmacosomes for oral, nasal, and targeted drug delivery. Recent research highlights their potential in enhancing therapeutic efficacy, sustained drug release, and site-specific delivery. This review summarizes the concept, formulation approaches, characterization techniques, advantages, limitations, and pharmaceutical applications of Pharmacosomes, emphasizing their growing importance in modern drug delivery systems.