Prospects and Future Scope of Smart Drug Delivery Systems: A Critical Perspective

Abstract

With the potential to increase efficacy and safety while overcoming the drawbacks of traditional drug administration techniques, smart drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising option. This chapter offers a thorough study of the potential applications of smart drug delivery systems. Some of the systems that have been thoroughly discussed include the many smart drug delivery systems, such as stimuli-responsive systems, targeted delivery systems, and implanted devices. It has also been investigated how the development of these systems was made possible by advancements in nanotechnology, microfluidics, bioelectronics, systems analysis, and 3D printing. Some of the considerations highlighting its long-term use in the healthcare sector are the potential impact of smart drug delivery systems on increased therapeutic efficacy, fewer adverse effects, and better patient compliance. The feasibility and techno-economic analysis of deploying these systems, as well as potential cost reductions for both patients and healthcare providers, have all been explored. Finally, we evaluated the difficulties that must be solved to fully realize the potential of smart medication delivery systems. These challenges include the need for further research to optimize the design and performance of these systems, as well as the need to address regulatory and ethical concerns. Overall, our chapter highlights that smart drug delivery systems have significant potential to transform the healthcare industry with a special focus on personalized drug delivery systems, improved patient outcomes, and more efficient healthcare facilitation and delivery along with the recent developments in AI and ML domains. © 2025 selection and editorial matter, Ajit Behera, Arpan Kumar Nayak, Ranjan K. Mohapatra, and Ali Ahmed Rabaan individual chapters, the contributors.