A Comprehensive Review on Plant Bioactive Compounds-Based Novel Drug Delivery System for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and eventual joint damage. This condition occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes surrounding the joints. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and preventing joint damage through a combination of medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Recently, biological therapies have been introduced, including Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF) blockers (such as etanercept, infliximab, and adalimumab), IL-6 inhibitors (tocilizumab), and interleukin-1 inhibitors (anakinra). These treatments can lead to various side effects. The use of herbal-based treatments, such as secondary metabolites, has gained popularity due to their better tolerability, safety, and effectiveness compared to conventional therapies. However, there are also some limitations, like poor bioavailability and permeability and lower stability; to overcome these issues, Novel Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS) have been introduced as better treatment options in recent years. Polymer science advancements and nanotechnology applications have opened new avenues for RA treatment, emphasizing the development of smart drug delivery systems. These systems aim to improve therapeutic outcomes while minimizing adverse effects. Additionally, newly synthesized biocompatible drug delivery systems, combined with anti-inflammatory drugs composed of secondary metabolites, offer potential solutions for RA.