Which statement about liposomes is NOT true?

• A. They are biologically inert and biodegradable.
• B. Liposomes can encapsulate only water soluble drugs.
• C. Liposome encapsulated drugs are less susceptible to degradation.
• D. Use of liposomes can decrease a drug's toxicity.

Answer: (B)

Liposomes have a phospholipid bilayer surrounding an aqueous interior, creating two compartments: the inner water-filled core and the lipid bilayer. This structure lets them carry hydrophilic drugs in the aqueous core and embed hydrophobic drugs within the lipid bilayer. Because of this dual capacity, they are not limited to water-soluble drugs; they can encapsulate both water-soluble and lipid-soluble compounds. That makes the statement claiming they encapsulate only water-soluble drugs not true.

Additionally, encapsulation protects drugs from chemical and enzymatic degradation, improving stability. Liposome delivery can also alter pharmacokinetics, reducing exposure of healthy tissues and lowering toxicity. In most cases, liposomes are designed to be biocompatible and biodegradable, aligning with their therapeutic benefits.