The abstract presents an overview of advancements in drug delivery systems, focusing on the evolution from conventional methods (like tablets, capsules, and syrups) to more sophisticated controlled delivery approaches. It emphasizes the limitations of traditional drug delivery, including poor bioavailability, inconsistent drug levels in the body, and the inability to sustain therapeutic effects. These shortcomings can make treatments less effective and potentially unsafe. To address these issues, controlled drug delivery systems (CDDS) have been developed, which allow for precise and sustained release of medication at targeted sites. Over the past two decades, these systems have evolved significantly; incorporating innovations at both the macro and nano scales, and now include intelligent systems that can respond to stimuli for targeted drug delivery. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool to revolutionize the healthcare sector, including drug delivery and development. This review explores the current and future applications of AI in the pharmaceutical industry, focusing on drug delivery and development. It provides a comprehensive overview of AI's potential to transform the pharmaceutical industry and improve patient care while identifying further research and development areas. It also covers the fundamental aspects of drug delivery, exploring the pharmacokinetics involved, limitations of conventional methods, and the design and classification of CDDS. It also delves into cutting-edge topics such as nano-drug delivery, targeted therapy, and the use of smart biomaterials, concluding with a discussion of current challenges and future research directions in the field.