Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents: Green Chemistry Solutions for Pharmaceutical Applications

Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) are an environmentally acceptable and promising green alternative to traditional organic solvents in the pharmaceutical industry. Composed of naturally derived, biodegradable components such as sugars, amino acids, and organic acids, NADES offer significant advantages in terms of safety, sustainability, and tunable properties. These solvents exhibit low volatility, high thermal stability, and excellent solubilization capabilities for both polar and non-polar compounds, making them ideal for drug extraction, formulation, and delivery. Unlike traditional solvents, NADES can enhance the solubility and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs, reduce the need for harmful excipients, and support eco-friendly manufacturing processes. Recent studies have also highlighted their potential in improving the stability and therapeutic efficacy of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Furthermore, their biocompatibility and minimal toxicity expand their applicability in areas such as topical formulations and nanocarriers. Despite their growing promise, challenges such as standardization, regulatory acceptance, and large-scale production need to be addressed. This review discusses the composition, preparation, and pharmaceutical applications of NADES, emphasizing their role in advancing green chemistry principles. Overall, NADES represent a transformative approach for sustainable pharmaceutical development, aligning with environmental goals while maintaining high-performance standards in drug design and delivery.