KIU Publications

Human immunodeficiency virus infection in pregnancy remained a significant global health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where vertical transmission continued to contribute substantially to pediatric HIV incidence. Despite advances in combination antiretroviral therapy, physiological alterations during pregnancy complicated drug pharmacokinetics, reduced therapeutic predictability, and may increase maternal or fetal toxicity. Lipid nanoparticle delivery systems emerged as transformative platforms in modern drug delivery, offering improved bioavailability, targeted tissue distribution, and controlled release kinetics. The purpose of this review is to critically examine the potential of lipid nanoparticle-based antiretroviral formulations to optimize therapeutic outcomes in HIV positive pregnant women. This article was developed through a comprehensive narrative synthesis of contemporary literature in nanomedicine, maternal pharmacology, and HIV therapeutics. Available evidence indicated that lipid nanoparticles can enhance intracellular drug delivery, stabilize labile compounds, reduce systemic exposure, and potentially modulate placental transfer while maintaining viral suppression. Furthermore, long-acting nanoformulations may improve adherence and reduce dosing frequency, a crucial determinant of maternal and fetal protection. Lipid nanoparticle systems represent a promising strategy to reconcile efficacy, safety, and adherence challenges in maternal HIV management, warranting carefully designed translational and clinical investigations.