Drug Delivery Challenges Quiz

Study Notes

Limitations of Conventional Drug Delivery Systems

Delivering drugs to the desired site of action in the body remains a major challenge
Poor bioavailability is a limitation due to low solubility, stability, or permeability in the gastrointestinal tract
Non-specific distribution of drugs throughout the body can cause unwanted side effects in healthy organs and tissues
Some drugs may not reach the target site at a sufficient concentration to exert their therapeutic effect, especially in poorly vascularized or protected areas
Lack of control over the timing, duration, and intensity of drug release can result in suboptimal drug exposure
Patient compliance can be affected by invasive, painful, or uncomfortable conventional delivery methods

Novel Drug Delivery Systems (DDSs)

Controlled release DDSs are required to maintain constant plasma drug levels within the therapeutic window
Targeting the drug to the site of intended pharmacological activity is crucial to prevent unwanted effects on other organs
Particles should be able to penetrate fenestrations in tumor vessels (200-800nm) and have sufficient circulation time to accumulate

Targeted Delivery

Most common types: active, passive, and physical targeting
Passive targeting uses the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect to accumulate high-molecular weight drugs in tissues with increased vascular permeability
Physical targeting methods include:
- Using devices (e.g., catheters) to position drugs at the target site
- Direct accessibility to most organs requires open surgical procedures or guiding devices
- Using magnetic fields to attract drug delivery vehicles with magnetic properties to the target

Description

Test your knowledge on the challenges faced in drug delivery, including poor bioavailability, non-specific distribution, and difficulties reaching the desired site of action in the body. Explore the factors that impact drug effectiveness and safety.