Miltefosine Nanoparticles against Leishmaniasis: Past, Present and Future

Abstract

Miltefosine (MF), an alkyl phospholipid developed initially to treat breast cancer, is a highly effective treatment for leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease that is the world's second leading cause of parasitic death after malaria.MF has dose-limiting gastrointestinal side effects in patients, and its penetration through lipophilic barriers is lowered. This paper provides an overview of the drug MF, its physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetics, mechanism of action, and the various nanocarriers used. It comprehensively reviews the most recent published literature on different techniques for increasing the bioavailability of MF for the treatment of leishmaniasis. In recent years, nanomedicine has emerged at the forefront of nanotechnology, creating high expectations in the biomedical field. Researchers are developing novel nanoparticles for diagnostic applications using imaging technology and treatment applications using drug delivery technologies. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN), a porous material, have sparked interest due to their appealing physicochemical properties and advantageous morphological properties.