MIXED MICELLES: ADVANCED NANOCARRIERS FOR PULMONARY MUCOLYTIC DRUG DELIVERY-A SYSTEMATIC SCOPING REVIEW

This study is to summarize and analyze existing materials on advanced mixed micellar systems for the pulmonary transmission of mucolytic drugs. This review focuses on the composition and preparation of these compounds, their performance characteristics, and key obstacles slowing down clinical use for mucoreactive respiratory diseases. A systematic scoping a review of the scientific literature was conducted using PubMed and Scopus. We also searched in Embase. This review encompassed all sources from 2000 to 2024. Our searching strategy used key information related to mixed micelles, nanocarriers, delivery to lungs, mucolytics, and performance parameters. The review included original research papers, comparative studies, and other relevant reviews. Mixed micelles, which are usually 10 nm-100 nm in size, are conducive to pulmonary drug delivery. Combining polymers (e. g., Pluronics®) and surfactants (e. g., TPGS) results in high thermodynamic stability (low critical micelle concentration), high encapsulation efficiency for hydrophobic mucolytics like bromhexine HCl, and favorable mucus penetration. This is because of their small size and highly modifiable PEGylated surfaces. Thin-film hydration is a common method for preparing mixtures. Compared with liposomes, mixed micelles offer increased stability during nebulization and easier and more scalable manufacturing methods. Mixed micelles are a promising and highly adaptable nanocarrier system designed for delivering mucolytic agents to the lungs, as they facilitate significant elimination of mucus. The workable evidence from preclinical studies is strong. However, major translational gaps remain. Future research must be able to optimize systematically the formulations for specific mucolytics and carry out long-term safety and efficacy studies in vivo within relevant disease models. Researchers need to build the infrastructure for scalable, GMP-compliant production of these products to realize their potential to save lives.