Drug delivery systems range from medicated skin patches to implanted devices and powder forms, with new advances in drug delivery systems coming on the market every year.
Other pharmaceutical delivery system options include liposomes and synthetic and organic polymers. Drug delivery technology includes oral drug delivery systems, electronic drug delivery systems, nasal drug delivery systems and implantable drug delivery systems.
Selection of the proper controlled release drug delivery systems includes polymers and liposomes, which will release the drug at a sustained rate. Some systems will release the drug only in certain environments. Keep the following in mind, when choosing a drug delivery system:
1. Select controlled drug delivery systems fitting the medication's delivery requirements.
2. Seek out the newest drug delivery systems as drug delivery technology improves.
3. Advanced drug delivery systems in development include smart drugs and monoclonal antibodies offer new opportunities for drug treatment.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Choose leading-edge drug delivery technologies
Look for drug delivery science and technology from leading companies, pioneering new methods. Advances in delivery methods make delivery more physically effective and cost effective.
I recommend: Leaders in the industry offer new advancements in drug delivery systems including transdermal systems and inhalation systems such as
3M Drug Delivery Systems. Innovative products like those offered by
Aveva Drug Delivery Systems provide transdermal products on the cutting edge of technology.
Choose dependable controlled release drug delivery systems
Drugs are becoming more dependent on controlled release, allowing the active ingredients in the medication to be released over a period of time, generally 12 to 24 hours, giving patients fewer requirements for taking medications frequently.
I recommend: Find leading companies in controlled release technologies developing formulations that allow for more once-daily application over the current standard of two, three or more times per day, such as those from
Biovail Corporation. Other types of controlled release products offer various delivery methods including delivery of the active ingredients in the drug when it reaches the gastro-intestinal tract, such as those developed by
Advanced Drug Delivery Technologies Ltd.
Purchase supplies through a trusted drug delivery company
Part of the project of selecting the proper drug delivery system is having the correct administration supplies. A range of products is available including eye dropper bottles, pens, needles and auto injectors.
I recommend: Select leak-proof, fiber-free products that offer tamper evidence protection for eye droppers from
Santapet Polymers Limited, offering a range of sizes and bottle types.
Ypsomed AG offers a number of options for targeted drug delivery systems through injection and requirements for supplies such as pen injectors, needles and drug cartridges, such as those used for insulin delivery.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Determine the most appropriate drug delivery systems and drug delivery company for the patient considering the application's ease of use, reduction to pain, safe application and specific drug-related requirements. Often, selecting delivery methods that provide less dependence on the doctor enables a patient to be more proactive in treatment.
The official source of Drug Delivery Systems is the Drug Delivery Systems page at Business.com