Pharmaceutical Chemistry

Drug Delivery Techniques

Drug delivery systems control the rate at which a drug is released and the location in the body where it is released.  Some systems can control both.

Clinicians historically have attempted to direct their interventions to areas of disease or areas at risk for disease. Depending on the medication, the way it is delivered, and how our bodies respond, side effects sometimes occur. These side effects can vary greatly from person to person in type and severity.  For example, an oral drug for seasonal allergies may cause unwanted drowsiness or an upset stomach. 

Administering drugs locally rather than systemically (affecting the whole body) is a common way to decrease side effects and drug toxicity while maximizing a treatment’s impact. A topical (used on the skin) antibacterial ointment for a localized infection or a cortisone injection of a painful joint can avoid some of the systemic side effects of these medications. There are other ways to achieve targeted drug delivery, but some medications can only be given systemically.

Drug delivery systems are engineered technologies for the targeted delivery and/or controlled release of therapeutic agents.