Nanocrystals: A Universal Tool for the Formulation of Poorly Soluble Drugs

Nanocrystals have emerged as one of the most versatile and clinically relevant platforms for the delivery of poorly soluble drugs, with several nanocrystal-based products already on the market. Produced through both “bottom-up” and “top-down” approaches, drug nanocrystals possess a large specific surface area that enhances the dissolution and absorption of hydrophobic actives, offering a powerful strategy to improve drug performance. This book presents the fundamental principles of nanocrystal technology alongside their broad applications in modern drug delivery. Chapters explore oral bioavailability enhancement, long-acting injectable therapies, topical and transdermal delivery (including microneedles), ocular and mucosal administration, pulmonary delivery, and strategies for targeting the central nervous system. Each contribution highlights both the opportunities and the challenges of applying nanocrystal formulations across therapeutic areas. Intended for drug delivery scientists in both academia and industry, this volume provides a comprehensive overview of nanocrystal research, development, and translation into innovative therapeutic solutions. By combining rigorous science with insights into clinical and commercial impact, it serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and professionals aiming to harness nanocrystals in addressing complex therapeutic needs.

Dr. Alejandro J. Paredes is a Pharmacist (2011) and holds a PhD (2016), both from the National University of Córdoba, Argentina, as well as a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education and Teaching from Queen’s University Belfast (2022). He is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Pharmacy at Queen’s, where he leads a research group focused on controlled and targeted drug delivery using nanocrystals, and teaches across the BSc and MPharm programs. Dr. Paredes is a named inventor on two patents, has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles, and is the editor of two textbooks. He has secured prestigious research funding from the EPSRC, the Academy of Medical Sciences, the Royal Society, the Northern Ireland Department for the Economy, and Applied Microbiology International. In 2024, he received the Emerging Scientist Award from the Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences (UK) and a Springboard Award from the Academy of Medical Sciences (UK). He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK) and of CICOPS (Italy), a Trustee of the British Society for Nanomedicine, and an active member of several scientific societies, contributing in various capacities. Dr. Paredes also serves on the editorial boards of Materials Today Bio, AAPS PharmSciTech, and Drug Delivery and Translational Research.