This review with 238 references explores the multifaceted roles of cyclodextrins in pharmaceutical formulations, ranging from oral, ophthalmic, parenteral, and topical applications to their emerging use in targeted therapies, gene delivery, and treatment of neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and infectious diseases. Cyclodextrins not only improve drug solubility and controlled release but also reduce toxicity and side effects, leading to safer and more effective treatments. Recent advancements, such as cyclodextrin-based nanoparticles, offer promising pathways for cancer therapy, chronic disease management, and personalized medicine. As research continues, cyclodextrins remain at the forefront of innovation in drug delivery systems, ensuring better patient outcomes and expanding the possibilities of modern therapeutics.
The various pharmaceutical forms and diseases are discussed with several examples mentioning the effects of cyclodextrins themselves without active substances in various illnesses.
Nicolaescu, O.E.; Belu, I.; Mocanu, A.G.; Manda, V.C.; Rău, G.; Pîrvu, A.S.; Ionescu, C.; Ciulu-Costinescu, F.; Popescu, M.; Ciocîlteu, M.V. Cyclodextrins: Enhancing Drug Delivery, Solubility and Bioavailability for Modern Therapeutics. Pharmaceutics 2025, 17, 288. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17030288