Utilization of nanoemulsions to enhance bioactivity of pharmaceuticals, supplements, and nutraceuticals: Nanoemulsion delivery systems and nanoemulsion excipient systems.

Introduction: The efficacy of many hydrophobic bioactives (pharmaceuticals, supplements, and nutraceuticals) is limited due to their relatively low or highly variable bioavailability. Nanoemulsions consisting of small lipid droplets (r < 100 nm) dispersed in water can be designed to improve bioavailability.

Areas Covered: The major factors limiting the oral bioavailability of hydrophobic bioactive agents are highlighted: bioaccessibility, absorption and transformation.