Application of Smart Polymeric Composites/Nanocomposites in Drug Delivery

Over the course of several decades, an interest in stimuli-responsive polymers has grown significantly, leading to extensive research in the development of environmentally responsive macromolecules, which can be exhibited as smart novel polymers. They have emerged as a promising platform for the advancement of drug delivery systems, enhancing the efficiency of therapeutic interventions, decreasing dosage frequency, minimizing possible adverse reactions and enhancing patient receptivity. In particular, these materials are responsive to very subtle changes in their environment. The environmental triggers for such transformations can include temperature change, shift in pH, variations of ionic strength, alterations in magnetic or electric fields, exposure to light, <i>etc</i>. They are said to be stimuli-responsive or intelligent polymers. Smart polymeric materials provide a versatile platform for drug delivery, enabling the controlled release of drugs in a stable and bioactive form. Additionally, the incorporation of nanocomposites contributes to increased drug bioavailability, enables targeted delivery through surface modification, and facilitates sustained release profiles. This chapter mainly provides detailed progress of smart polymeric composites or nanocomposites in the advancement of drug delivery applications. It also thoroughly covers several characteristics of these polymers categorized into different groups based on the stimulus type. The chapter aims to shed light on the evolving landscape of stimuli-responsive polymers and their pivotal role in shaping the future of drug delivery systems.