Paclitaxel is a promising antineoplastic agent against a variety of human solid tumors, such as ovary, breast, lung, head and neck tumors, and melanoma. Owing to its poor solubility, the first available formulation of paclitaxel (Taxol®) exists as a non-aqueous concentrate composed of Cremophor EL (polyethoxylated castor oil) and ethanol. It must be diluted to a suitable aqueous solution prior to long time intravenous infusion. Based on the components and usage, Taxol® has serious adverse effects and is inconvenient for clinical use. To address these problems, the development of a less-toxic, better-tolerated, Cremophor EL-free formulation of paclitaxel has been attempted. In recent years, new drug delivery systems (DDS) including albumin-based nanoparticles, micelles, liposomes, etc. have been investigated. In this review, we present the formulations and delivery technologies of paclitaxel for injection and focus on some of preclinical and clinical experience on the formulations which are already on the market or under clinical stages. Finally, possible nanotechnology advantages, existing challenges and future perspectives of paclitaxel delivery are highlighted.
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