Abstract: Spray-drying is a well-established technique widely applied in the design and manufacture of novel formulations. With focuses on inhalable formulations, sustained release injectables and amorphous drug formulations, this current review discusses the basic background, advantages, and applicability of spray-drying technique as well as the formulation and process variables influencing the final drug product. The information provided in this article will be useful for the further investigation, optimization and design of spray-drying technique as well as its popularization in manufacturing pharmaceutical formulations.