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Authors
Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
The subject of systemic delivery of biopharmaceuticals has been discussed in some occasions
in Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences, which is now in its 11th issue. The last decades
have witnessed a strong biotechnological progress, making available many biopharmaceuticals
with great therapeutic potential, in many cases promising an undisputed place alongside other
established therapies. The meaning of biopharmaceuticals is sometimes misleading but,
rigorously, this word refers to therapeutic molecules that are biological in nature and
manufactured using biotechnology. In this sense, a considerable wide variety of
macromolecules is included in this group, from proteins and peptides, to antigens and nucleic
acids. Their administration is extremely challenging because of biopharmaceutical and
physicochemical limitations, requiring circumventing enzymatic degradation and reducing
immune reactions, while ensuring molecular stability and permeability. Parenteral administration
appears in this context as an obvious option, as it overcomes some of the referred issues.
Actually, to date, the vast majority of marketed biopharmaceuticals is administered by direct
injection, usually through intravenous, subcutaneous or intramuscular route. However, the
associated cost and patient discomfort, have turned the research efforts of both industrial and
academic partners towards alternative possibilities that increase patient compliance.
Description
Keywords
Biopharmaceuticals Mucosal delivery
Citation
Grenha A. Systemic delivery of biopharmaceuticals: Parenteral forever?. J Pharm Bioall Sci 2012;4:95.