DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sajb.2026.v14i03.006

Pages: 239-263

Melatonin-loaded nanoparticles (MLNs) are currently an effective therapeutic approach for osteoporosis due to the superior capabilities of nanotechnology combined with the bone-protective properties of melatonin. When combined into nanosized carriers, drug absorption is enhanced, site-specific targeting is made possible, systemic side effects are decreased, controlled release is provided, and bone mineral density (BMD) is raised. Conventional osteoporosis treatments often result in adverse effects and poor patient compliance, which these properties address. Examples of nanocarriers that offer a range of platforms for efficiently delivering melatonin to bone tissues are Chitosan Nanoparticles (CS-NPs), Poly D, L-lactic-co-Glycolic Acid Nanoparticles (PLGA), Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles (nHAP), Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs), Exosomes (Exos), and Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs). Despite their advantages, MLNs still have a number of challenges before they can be applied in clinical settings. Regulatory approval, toxicity, long-term safety, and scalable production concerns must all be appropriately managed. Furthermore, because osteoporosis is an ongoing problem, long-term animal and clinical trials are necessary to evaluate administration strategies, modify dosage, and determine efficacy. MLNs may serve as adjuvants or the main therapeutic agents, even if their full biological potential is still unclear. Thus, continuing research will be necessary to advance MLNs from experimental models to clinical use. Whenever considered, MLNs are a novel and effective drug delivery technique that could improve the treatment of osteoporosis, reduce systemic issues, and significantly progress the development of drugs based on next-generation nanomedicine.