Novel Approaches in Targeted Drug Delivery for Treatment of Neuropathy

Neuropathy, a devastating disorder of the peripheral nervous system, results in pain, numbness, and weakness, profoundly impacting quality of life. Conventional therapies provide insufficient alleviation, requiring targeted drug delivery systems (TDDS) to improve effectiveness and reduce adverse effects. This review examines diverse TDDS methodologies, encompassing intrathecal therapy, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation, in conjunction with innovations in nanotechnology-driven delivery systems. Nanotechnology offers a novel framework for neuropathy treatment, including nanomaterials such as dendrimers, micelles, polymer nanoparticles, liposomes, hydrogels, and quantum dots. These carriers enhance drug encapsulation, cellular absorption, and sustained release, thereby improving therapeutic efficacy and minimizing systemic toxicity. Gene therapy presents a promising approach, targeting the modulation of neuropathic pathways and facilitating neuron regeneration. Although it remains in preliminary research stages, it holds potential for future therapies, especially in diabetic neuropathy. Moreover, transdermal drug delivery offers a non-invasive method to deliver drugs directly to targeted regions, enhancing bioavailability and patient adherence. The integration of nanotechnology, gene therapy, and transdermal administration has the potential to transform neuropathy treatment by providing more accurate and effective medicines. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to fully exploit the promise of TDDS and improve care and quality of life for patients with neuropathy.