Volatiilsem

Volatiilsem is a recently introduced class of high‑volatile, self‑emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) designed for oral administration of poorly soluble therapeutics. The term combines “volatile” with “sem” for self‑emulsifying micelle, highlighting the system’s rapid dispersion and ease of absorption. Volatiilsem formulations typically contain a low‑molecular‑weight oil phase, a surface‐active emulsifier, and a co‑solvent that enhances the solubility of lipophilic APIs. Upon contact with gastrointestinal fluids, the mixture generates a fine emulsion with droplet diameters below 100 nm, which facilitates lymphatic transport and bypasses first‑pass metabolism.

The key property of volatiilsem is its volatility. The co‑solvent evaporates quickly, allowing the emulsifier to reorganize and form a stable micro‑emulsion that is both intensely wetted and highly bioavailable. This volatility is achieved through the inclusion of volatile compounds such as propylene glycol or ethanol, which increase the system’s surface tension reduction capacity while reducing viscosity.

Volatiilsem has seen application in the delivery of macrolide antibiotics, statins, and certain antidiabetic agents where conventional formulations suffer from low absorption or high variability. Studies in animal models have shown up to a 4‑fold increase in plasma concentration and improved pharmacokinetic profiles compared to standard tablets. In addition, the volatile nature of these systems means that they can be incorporated into spray‑dry powders for inhalation, offering a novel route for systemic delivery.

Because the formulation components are generally regarded as safe by regulatory agencies, volatiilsem is considered a promising platform for next‑generation oral drug delivery. Ongoing research focuses on optimizing the balance between volatility and stability, exploring biodegradable emulsifiers, and scaling manufacturing processes for clinical use.