Liposomes mediated drug delivery approaches for treatment of COVID-19 and other viral diseases

The global impact of COVID-19 has accelerated the search for advanced drug delivery systems capable of improving therapeutic precision against viral diseases. Liposomes, with their structural versatility, ability to encapsulate diverse therapeutic cargos, and potential for site-specific delivery, represent a particularly promising platform. In managing COVID-19, liposomal formulations have been investigated for the targeted delivery of antiviral agents, RNA-based therapeutics, and immune modulators, aiming to enhance bioavailability and mitigate systemic toxicity. Similar strategies have shown promise in other viral infections such as influenza, hepatitis, and Human immunodeficiency virus, where liposomes improve drug stability, reduce resistance, and facilitate controlled release. Nevertheless, translation into clinical success remains limited by hurdles including large-scale production, stability under physiological and storage conditions, rapid clearance by immune mechanisms, and regulatory complexities. By critically examining advances and ongoing challenges, this chapter highlights the potential of liposome-mediated antiviral delivery to contribute to more effective therapies for COVID-19 and future viral outbreaks.