The Role of Nanoparticles as Nanocarriers for the Controlled Release of some Potential Existing Antiviral Drugs for SARS-CoV-2 Management: A Review

Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently declared the outbreak and spread of the new strain of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS--CoV-2) a global pandemic. In this regard, a lot of scientific investigations and clinical trials on some existing antiviral and antibiotic drugs have been ongoing to combat this menace. Methods: In the past, conventional drug therapy has shown irregular drug distribution, poor solubil-ity, and low permeability to target cells, organs, and tissues. However, Chloroquine, Hydrox-ychloroquine Remdesivir, Lopinavir/Ritonavir, etc. have attracted several investigations in mono-therapeutic approaches and a combination of therapy have shown promising effects in reducing viral loading in some SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. Nevertheless, the advent of nanomedicine has triggered serious attention on drug-loaded nanoparticle as nanocarriers to deliver bioactive drug molecules to target organs with increased circulation and controlled release. Therefore, the application of nanoparticles as nanocarriers for the controlled release of antiviral drugs would improve the ease of drug administration and care of patients admitted at various health care facilities world-wide. Conclusion: Owing to their small sizes, biocompatibility, and high encapsulation properties, nano-particles can be utilized as potential nanocarrier of antiviral drugs for the SARS-CoV-2 management at a reduced cost with minimal side effect in the body system. In addition, some noticeable concerns on the ongoing management of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in developing nations have been presented for concerted attention.