Introduction/Objective: Anxiety is a natural response to a potential threat that helps individuals prepare for it. However, when it becomes chronic, excessive, and uncontrollable, it is classified as pathological. Anxiety disorders are among the most frequently encountered psychiatric conditions and have shown a rising trend in prevalence. Current therapeutic approaches are limited due to poor efficacy, reduced bioavailability, side effects, and the challenge of misdiagnosis. This review aims to explore nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems as a novel strategy to overcome these limitations. Methods: The recent scientific literature was reviewed, focusing on nanotechnology- enabled drug delivery systems in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Emphasis was placed on formulations that improve therapeutic efficacy and safety, including niosomes, liposomes, polymeric nanocapsules, chitosan nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers. Results: Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising tool for targeted drug delivery at the nanometric scale. These systems offer controlled release, improved bioavailability, site-specific targeting, enhanced stability, and reduced adverse effects. Various nanoformulations have demonstrated potential efficacy in managing anxiety disorders more effectively than conventional approaches. Discussion: The application of nanotechnology addresses serious limitations of current therapies, particularly poor brain targeting and systemic side effects. The novel drug delivery systems can provide safe, effective, and patient-compliant options for anxiety management. Conclusion: This review highlights the promise of nanotechnology-driven formulations in the treatment of anxiety disorders and discusses their current status and future prospects in therapeutic applications.
Jinta et al. (Fri,) studied this question.