Microcapsules as drug delivery devices.

This review will deal with techniques for producing drug-filled microcapsules, current applications of such microcapsules, and projected applications of microcapsules as drug delivery devices. Specific encapsulation techniques to be evaluated include coacervation, solvent evaporation, interfacial polymerization, emulsion, and hot melt processes. Selection of capsule coating materials will be another factor considered. Differences in specific design requirements of capsules to be administered i.v., i.m. (or s.c./i.p.), and orally will be discussed at length. Specific examples of current capsules administered by each of the routes will be given.