Mucoadhesive polymers in the treatment of dry X syndrome

•This review is focussing on mucoadhesive polymers for the treatment of dry eye, mouth and vagina.•Mucoadhesive polymers provide protection or even mucus substitution for leaky mucus barriers.•Synthetic, semi-synthetic and natural polymers are included.•A survey of mucoadhesive properties and commercially available formulations is provided.

Mucoadhesive polymers are an essential tool in the treatment of diseases where dry mucosal surfaces are involved. In this review, we focus on the application of mucoadhesive polymers in the context of dry eye, dry mouth, and dry vagina syndrome, collectively named ‘dry X syndrome’. With a prolonged residence time on mucosal membranes, mucoadhesive materials are as targeted treatment option, with the mucosa as an intended site of action. Thus, mucoadhesive polymers are able to ease local irritation or itching, alleviate chewing difficulties, improve tear-film break-up time, and help to restore physiological conditions. Here, we discuss the different classes of mucoadhesive material and their performance in the treatment of dry X syndrome.