Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part E (2025)

Gastroretentive Drug Delivery Systems (GRDDS) are an innovative approach to enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of orally administered drugs that have a narrow absorption window, are unstable in the intestinal environment, or require localized action in the stomach. This review explores the principles, types, and advancements of GRDDS, including floating systems, mucoadhesive systems, expandable and swelling systems, and high-density formulations. These systems are designed to prolong gastric residence time, allowing for sustained drug release and better absorption. Various physiological factors such as gastric emptying rate, pH, and fed or fasted states influence the performance of GRDDS. The review also highlights the role of polymers and novel technologies in improving formulation stability and effectiveness. While GRDDS offer several advantages, including improved patient compliance, reduced dosing frequency, and targeted delivery, they also present formulation and physiological challenges that need to be addressed for optimal performance. Ongoing research is focused on overcoming these limitations through the development of smart polymers, responsive systems, and advanced drug carriers. In summary, GRDDS present a promising strategy in oral drug delivery, especially for drugs with specific absorption requirements, and continued innovation in this field is expected to expand their clinical application and therapeutic potential.