Self-emulsifying Drug Delivery System Improve Oral Bioavailability: Role of Excipients and Physico-chemical Characterization

: Self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) is a kind of solid or liquid formulation composed of drugs, oil, surfactant and cosurfactant. It could form a fine emulsion (micro/nano) in the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Later on, the formed emulsion is absorbed through the lymphatic pathway. The oral bioavailability of drugs in SEDDS would be improved for bypassing the first-pass effect of the liver. Therefore, SEDDS has become a vital strategy to increase the oral bioavailability of poor watersoluble drugs. In addition, there is no aqueous phase in SEDDS, thus SEDDS is a homogeneous system, consequently being suitable for large-scale production and more stable than conventional emulsion. However, the role of formulation aspects in the biological property of SEDDS is not fully clear. In order to prepare the satisfying SEDDS to improve oral drug bioavailability, we need to fully understand the various factors that affect the in vivo behavior of SEDDS. In this review, we would explore the role of ingredient (drugs, oils, surfactant and cosurfactant) of SEDDS in increasing oral drug bioavailability. We would also discuss the effect of physicochemical property (particle size and zeta potential) of SEDDS on the oral drug bioavailability enhancement. This review would provide an approach to develop a rational SEDDS to improving oral drug bioavailability. Lay Summary: Self-emulsifying drug-delivery system (SEDDS) has been proven to be promising in ameliorating the oral bioavailability of poor water-soluble drugs. This review highlighted the influence of excipients and physicochemical property of SEDDS on the formation of emulsion and the oral absorption of drugs in the body.