Drug Delivery: Problems & Solutions
Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology
A Report On
Drug Delivery: Problems and Solutions
Prepared For
Mrs. Khanam Nargis Sultana
Mr. Abu Zafor
Department of Humanities, BUET
Prepared By
Nazmul Alam Patwari- 2218016
Purujit Piyal Sana- 2218017
Trisha Mondal- 2218018
Sumaiya Afrin Rubab- 2218019
Alifa Hossain Chowdhury- 2218020
Level-1
Term-1
Section-A1
Group-04
Biomedical Engineering
2
Forwarding Letter
Date: 10-01-2023
To
Mrs. Khanam Nargis Sultana
Mr. Abu Zafor
Dear Sir,
It was an honor for me to submit you the report on "Drug Delivery: Problems & Solutions". I
express my deepest gratitude to you for selecting such an important and demanding topic of
modern times. It was very helpful in acquainting with Drug Delivery Systems in our modern
world.
While preparing the report we enjoyed every moment of it. We tried to identify what are the
reasons and what is the key to breaking the deadlock. The report is composed of necessary
information and data. With relevant illustrations & public reaction, I think you will find the
report very interesting and purposeful.
The Report makes recommendations about various sectors and aspects of Drug Delivery.I
apologize for any mistakes in the report due to time constraints. I hope you will consider
those.
In the end, we like to thank you for providing us with such an opportunity. We hope this
report will help to get all the insights and aspects about Drug Delivery.
Faithfully Yours
Nazmul Alam Patwari 2218016
Purujit Piyal Sana 2218017
Trisha Mondal 2218018
Sumaiya Afrin Rubab 2218019
Alifa Hossain Chowdhury 2218020
Biomedical Engineering, BUET
ii
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Table of Contents
Forwarding Letter…………………………………………………………………………….ii
Table of Contents……………………………………………………………………………..iii
List of Illustration……………….……………………………………………………………iv
Summary………………………………………………………...……………………………v
1. Introduction.......................................................................................................................... 1
2. Discussion.............................................................................................................................. 2
2.1 DRUG DELIVERY OVERVIEW...............................................................................2
2.2 Routes of Drug Delivery.............................................................................................. 3
2.4 Novel Drug Delivery System........................................................................................4
Targeted Drug Delivery..................................................................................................4
Nanotechnology-Based Delivery Systems..................................................................... 4
Sustained and Controlled Release Systems....................................................................5
Implantable Drug Delivery Devices...............................................................................5
Smart Drug Delivery Systems........................................................................................5
Inhalable Drug Delivery Systems.................................................................................. 6
Gene Delivery Systems................................................................................................ 6
Biosensors in Drug Delivery.......................................................................................... 6
3D Printing in Drug Delivery.........................................................................................7
Bioadhesive Drug Delivery Systems..............................................................................7
Lipid-Based Drug Delivery............................................................................................ 7
Hydrogel-Based Drug Delivery..................................................................................... 8
2.5 Disease-Specific Drug Delivery System...................................................................... 9
Cancer-Specific Drug Delivery...................................................................................... 9
Neurological Disorders.................................................................................................. 9
Inflammatory Diseases................................................................................................... 9
Cardiovascular Diseases.................................................................................................9
Infectious Diseases....................................................................................................... 10
Diabetes........................................................................................................................ 10
Respiratory Diseases.................................................................................................... 11
Ophthalmic Diseases.................................................................................................... 11
Autoimmune Disorders................................................................................................ 11
Gastrointestinal Diseases..............................................................................................11
3. Conclusion...........................................................................................................................13
4. Recommendations.............................................................................................................. 14
5. Appendix............................................................................................................................. 15
6. List of References............................................................................................................... 16
7. Bibliography....................................................................................................................... 16
8. Glossary...............................................................................................................................17
iii
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List of Illustrations
TOPIC PAGE NO
1.1 Drug Delivery System……………………………………………………………..1
2.4.1 Advantages of Targeted DDS……………………………………………………………4
2.4.2 Methods of Nanotechnology-Based DDS…….…………………………………………4
2.4.3 The IDDSs can be classified as inserts, pumps, and stents.…...………...………………5
2.4.4 Methods to targeting Pulmonary Disease………………………………………………..6
2.4.5 3D- Printing in DDS and it's Application…………..……………………………………7
2.4.6 Bioadhesive Drug Delivery…………..………………………………………………….7
2.4.7 Lipid-based Drug Delivery System…………..……………………………………….…8
2.5.1 DDS in Neurological Disorders………..………………………………………….…….9
2.5.2 DDS in Cardiovascular Dieseases………..…………………………………………….10
2.5.3 Implantable Devices for Constant Insulin Supply……..……………………….………10
2.5.4 DDS usage treateing Opthalmic Diseases………..…………………………………….11
iv
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SUMMARY
Drug delivery refers to the method and process of administering therapeutic substances, such
as medications or drugs, into the body to achieve a desired therapeutic effect. The goal of
drug delivery is to enhance the efficacy, safety, and convenience of drug treatments by
controlling the release, targeting, and absorption of pharmaceutical compounds.
There are various drug delivery systems designed to optimize the delivery of drugs, including
oral tablets, capsules, injections, patches, and inhalation devices. These systems aim to
improve the bioavailability of drugs, ensuring that the active ingredients reach the target
tissues or cells in the body while minimizing side effects.
Several factors influence the choice of drug delivery system, such as the physicochemical
properties of the drug, the desired pharmacokinetics, and the specific therapeutic goals.
Advanced technologies, such as nanoparticles, liposomes, and microencapsulation, enable
precise control over drug release kinetics and enhance the ability to target specific tissues or
cells.
In summary, drug delivery plays a crucial role in optimizing the therapeutic effects of
medications by developing innovative methods and systems to improve drug absorption,
distribution, metabolism, and excretion. This field continues to evolve with ongoing research
and technological advancements, aiming to make drug treatments more effective, targeted,
and patient-friendly.
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1. Introduction
Drug delivery is a method or process of administering a pharmaceutical compound to achieve
a therapeutic effect in humans or animals. The method by which a drug is delivered can
significantly affect its efficacy.
Some drugs have an optimum concentration range within which maximum benefit is derived,
and concentrations above or below this range can be toxic or produce no therapeutic benefit
at all. On the other hand, the very slow progress in the efficacy of the treatment of severe
diseases has suggested a growing need for a multidisciplinary approach to the delivery of
therapeutics to targets in tissues. That’s why many drug delivery methods and technologies
have emerged.
Drug delivery technologies modify drug release profile, absorption, distribution, and
elimination for the benefit of improving product diffusion, degradation, swelling, and
affinity-based mechanisms. The field of drug delivery continues to evolve, pushing the
boundaries of innovation to create more effective and patient-friendly ways of delivering
medications.
Fig. 1.1: Drug Delivery System
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2. Discussion
2.1 DRUG DELIVERY OVERVIEW
Drug delivery refers to the method and process of administering pharmaceutical substances
into the body to achieve a therapeutic effect. The goal of drug delivery systems is to ensure
the targeted and controlled release of drugs at specific sites within the body, enhancing their
efficacy while minimizing side effects. This field plays a crucial role in the development of
safer, more effective, and patient-friendly medical treatments.
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, I can provide a general overview of drug
delivery in today's context. Please note that there might have been further developments in
the field since then.
In today's context, drug delivery continues to be a dynamic and evolving field with ongoing
advancements aimed at improving therapeutic outcomes, patient compliance, and reducing
side effects. Several trends and innovations shape the landscape of drug delivery:
1. Precision Medicine and 4. Implantable Devices and 7. Digital Health and
Personalized Therapies Wearables Telemedicine Integration
2. Nanotechnology and 5. Smart Drug Delivery 8. Regulatory
Nanomedicine Systems Considerations
3. Biologics and 6. Combination Products 9. Global Health Challenges
Macromolecular
Therapeutics
The drug delivery landscape is characterized by a multidisciplinary approach, with
collaborations between pharmaceutical companies, researchers, engineers, and healthcare
providers. As technology continues to advance, the field holds the potential for
groundbreaking solutions to improve the effectiveness and accessibility of medical
treatments.
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2.2 Routes of Drug Delivery
There are various routes of drug delivery, each chosen based on factors such as the properties
of the drug, the targeted area within the body, and patient preferences. Here is a list of possible
routes of drug delivery:
1. Oral Route: 13. Subcutaneous (SC) Route:
● Tablets, Capsules, Liquids, ● Injection beneath the skin
Suspensions Syrups
2. Sublingual Route: 14. Intradermal Route:
● Under the tongue, Buccal ● Injection into the dermal layer of the
tablets or films skin
3. Rectal Route:
● Suppositories, Enemas 15. Intrathecal Route:
4. Topical Route: ● Injection into the spinal canal (for
● Creams, Ointments, Gels, specific medications)
Patches
5. Transdermal Route: 16. Intra-articular Route:
● Patches, Creams ● Injection into a joint (for certain
6. Inhalation Route: conditions)
● Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs),
Dry powder inhalers (DPIs), 17. Intraocular Route:
Nebulizers ● Injection into the eye (for specific eye
7. Nasal Route: conditions)
● Nasal sprays, Nasal drops
8. Ophthalmic Route: 18. Intranasal Route:
● Eye drops, Ointments ● Administration through the nasal
9. Otic Route: passages
● Ear drops
10. Vaginal Route: 19. Epidural Route:
● Creams, Tablets, Suppositories ● Injection into the epidural space (for
11. Intravenous (IV) Route: localized pain relief)
● Directly into the bloodstream
12. Intramuscular (IM) Route: 20. Intraperitoneal Route:
● Injection into muscle tissue ● Injection into the peritoneal cavity
These routes offer diverse options for drug administration, each with its advantages and
considerations. The choice of route depends on factors such as the desired onset of action, the
nature of the drug, the patient's condition, and the overall therapeutic goal. Researchers and
healthcare professionals continually explore and innovate in drug delivery to enhance efficacy,
minimize side effects, and improve patient compliance.
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2.4 Novel Drug Delivery System
Targeted Drug Delivery
Targeted drug delivery is a therapeutic
approach designed to deliver medication
directly to its intended site of action within
the body. This strategy seeks to enhance the
precision of drug administration, minimizing
side effects and maximizing the therapeutic
impact of the drug. The primary goal is to
concentrate the therapeutic agent on the
diseased or affected tissue while sparing
healthy tissues. This delivery works by
Identification of the Target, Drug
Conjugation, and Site-Specific Release. The
best use of this delivery method is in Cancer
Treatment, Chronic Diseases, and
Neurological Disorders.
Nanotechnology-Based Delivery Systems
Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems are a relatively new but rapidly developing
science where materials in the nanoscale range are employed to serve as means of diagnostic
tools or to deliver therapeutic agents to specific targeted sites in a controlled manner. These
systems offer multiple benefits in treating chronic human diseases by site-specific, and
Fig. 2.4.2: Methods of Nanotechnology-Based DDS
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target-oriented delivery of precise medicines.
Sustained and Controlled Release Systems
Sustained release and controlled release systems are two types of drug delivery systems that
are used to deliver drugs to the body in a controlled manner. Sustained release technology is
characterized by the slow release of a specific substance at a programmed rate to deliver the
drug for a prolonged period. This type of technology is used for drugs that are metabolized
too quickly and are eliminated from the body shortly after administration. Controlled release
technology, on the other hand, releases drugs according to a predictable and rational
programmed rate to achieve the optimal serum-drug concentration.
Implantable Drug Delivery Devices
The implantable drug delivery system (IDDS) is a medical device that can be surgically
placed inside patient tissues to introduce a therapeutic substance and improve its efficacy and
safety by controlling the rate, time, and place of drug release in the body. IDDSs are
combination products that merge
two or more regulated components
such as drugs, medical devices, or
biological products that function as a
single entity.
The advantages of this function
include precise distribution of the
drug to the target tissue without
bioavailability and first-pass
metabolism concerns that allow
reduction in the active dosage and
minimization of side effects due to
lower active substance systemic
concentrations and absence of risk
of incorrect drug administration.
Fig. 2.4.3: The IDDSs can be classified as inserts, pumps, and stents.
Smart Drug Delivery Systems
Smart drug delivery is a means of administering treatment to a patient in a targeted and
controlled release manner. SDDSs can efficiently lower dosage frequency while maintaining
drug concentrations in certain organs or tissues for a longer period of time when compared to
conventional Drug Delivery Systems. Smart Drug Delivery Systems are designed to take
advantage of the different conditions (e.g., temperature, pH, and enzyme concentration) that
occur in pathological tissues rather than in normal tissues in a “smart” way, enabling them to
trigger drug release in the targeted tissue, overcome intermediate barriers, and increase
bioavailability, blood circulation time, and overall therapeutic efficacy.
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Inhalable Drug Delivery Systems
Inhalable drug delivery systems are designed to administer medication through inhalation,
providing a direct route to the respiratory
system. This pulmonary delivery of
nanomedicine is a revolutionary step for
curing lung diseases like allergic rhinitis,
asthma, tracheitis, acute respiratory
distress syndrome, acute lung injury,
Coronavirus disease, and so on. Due to
the large absorption surface area of lungs
up to 180 m^2 and natural
circumvention of the first pass hepatic
metabolism, these drug delivery systems
work faster and are quite dependable
systems to cure lung diseases.
Gene Delivery Systems
The Gene delivery system is a process where foreign genetic material such as DNA or RNA,
is introduced into a host cell. Gene delivery is often used in gene therapy as it introduces or
silences a certain gene to promote a therapeutic outcome in patients. However, its efficiency
depends on the gene reaching the exact destination of the host cell to induce gene expression.
Biosensors in Drug Delivery
A biosensor is an analytical device that uses biological sensing elements such as proteins,
molecules, enzymes, or antibodies, to detect the presence of a specific chemical group.
Biosensors have been widely utilized for diagnostic and imaging, however, they are not
originally equipped with therapeutics to treat the diseases. These systems are a special class
of biosensors designed for the continuous analysis of biological molecules followed by drug
release in response to specific signals. These delivery systems, also known as closed-loop
delivery systems, have proven to be practical tools by tuning drug release as a function of
specific signals associated with physiological and pathological processes.
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3D Printing in Drug Delivery
Fig. 2.4.5: 3D- Printing in DDS and it's Application
3D printing technology has been used to design customized personalized medication to
provide maximal therapeutic benefits for patients. In addition, 3D printing has also been used
to manufacture drug delivery systems and biomedical devices to establish a paradigm shift in
the healthcare industry. 3D printing is valuable for the design and fabrication of diverse drug
delivery systems for therapeutic applications, and the development of artificial tissues and
organs for biomedical applications.
Bioadhesive Drug Delivery Systems
Bioadhesive drug delivery systems are
designed to attach to the mucosal surface
of the body, such as the mouth, nose, or
stomach, and release the drug over time.
They can be used to improve the drug’s
bioavailability, target the drug to a specific
site, and increase the drug’s residence
time. Bioadhesive drug delivery systems
can be formulated as monolithic, partially
coated, or multilayered matrices.
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Lipid-Based Drug Delivery
Lipid-based drug delivery systems consist of a diverse group of formulations, each consisting
of varying functional and structural properties. It works with the challenge of facilitating the
bioavailability and solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs. Lipid-based drug delivery
systems are broadly classified into four groups, including solid lipid particulate dosage forms,
Fig. 2.4.7: Lipid-based Drug Delivery System
emulsion-based systems, solid lipid tablets, and vesicular systems. The forms of Solid Lipid
Particulate Dosage are Lipospheres, solid lipid microparticles, and solid lipid nanoparticles.
These systems have minimal side effects.
Hydrogel-Based Drug Delivery
Hydrogel-based drug delivery is a specialized method that utilizes hydrogel materials as
carriers for controlled and targeted drug release. Hydrogels are three-dimensional networks of
hydrophilic polymers capable of absorbing and retaining large amounts of water. This unique
property makes them well-suited for delivering drugs in a controlled and sustained manner.
This system works by Hydrogel Formation, Swelling and Drug Release, and Responsive
Properties. In today’s context, this system is used in Cancer Therapy, Chronic Disease
Management, and COVID-19 applications.
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2.5 Disease-Specific Drug Delivery System
Cancer-Specific Drug Delivery
Cancer-specific drug delivery involves directing therapeutic agents exclusively to cancer
cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissues. By leveraging targeted nanoparticles or smart
carriers, this approach enhances treatment precision, reduces side effects, and holds great
potential for personalized cancer therapies. The focus is on maximizing the impact on
malignant cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue, improving the overall effectiveness
and tolerability of cancer treatments. Applications of Drug Delivery in Treating Cancer
include Targeted Chemotherapy, Localized Radiation Sensitization, Immunotherapy
Enhancement, Sustained Drug Release, Overcoming Blood-Brain Barrier, Combination
Therapies, Intraoperative Drug Delivery, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Nanoparticles, and so
on.
Neurological Disorders
Drug delivery to the central nervous system
is a challenging task due to the presence of
physiological barriers such as the
blood-brain barrier and the
blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier These
barriers limit the access of most drugs to the
central nervous system. However,
biomaterials can be designed to bypass or
traverse these barriers, enabling the
controlled delivery of drugs into the central
nervous system. There are many
neurological disorders that can be caused by
drug delivery, including but not limited to
neurotoxicity, neuroinflammation,
neurodegeneration, and neurological deficits.
Inflammatory Diseases
Drug delivery systems provide precise targeting of inflamed tissues in conditions like
rheumatoid arthritis, reducing systemic side effects by delivering medication directly to the
site of inflammation. Sustained release ensures continuous drug supply for long-term
treatment in inflammatory diseases, improving patient compliance. Biodegradable
nanoparticles engineered for inflammation minimize long-term side effects. Personalized
drug delivery tailored to individual profiles enhances therapeutic interventions, while
controlled release helps prevent flare-ups, contributing to improved disease management and
patient quality of life.
Cardiovascular Diseases
Recently, the interest in developing DDS for targeting the cardiovascular system has
increased exponentially. Many types of nano-based structures have been developed and can
be utilized for the transport of drugs for this purpose. Liposomes, polymer–drug conjugates,
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polymeric micelles, nanoshells, and
magnetic or hybrid carriers are some of
these and all can be used for drug delivery.
A nanoparticulate system, designed by Dvir
and coworkers, could specifically target
cardiac cells. An interesting aspect of
treating MI is the restoration of the
mechanical and electrical function of the
heart by exploiting the conductive
properties of some nanoformulations.
Fig. 2.5.2: DDS in Cardiovascular Dieseases
Infectious Diseases
In the ongoing battle against infectious diseases, the development of innovative drug delivery
systems has emerged as a pivotal frontier in medical research. Lower respiratory tract
infections are still in the top-ten killer diseases worldwide, accompanied in that list by
diarrheal diseases, malaria, and tuberculosis. Specific application of DDS regarding
infectious disease includes bacterial infection where it can proceed with targeting bacterial
biofilms and antibiotic-resistant strains. Tailoring drug delivery systems for protozoan and
helminthic infections is also a way to cure this. Protozoan parasites, such as those causing
malaria and leishmaniasis. Tailoring drug delivery systems to these infections involves
developing strategies that enhance drug efficacy, improve patient compliance, and minimize
side effects. The convergence of nanotechnology, smart delivery mechanisms, and targeted
strategies offers unprecedented opportunities to address the complexities of infectious
diseases with precision and efficacy.
Diabetes
Type-1 Diabetes, once known as juvenile
diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a
chronic condition. In this condition, the
pancreas makes little or no insulin. Insulin
is a hormone the body uses to allow sugar
(glucose) to enter cells to produce energy.
Advanced Treatment technique: The
development and availability of continuous
glucose monitoring and insulin pumps that
automatically adjust insulin working with a
continuous glucose monitor. Recently,
Researchers of MIT invented an Implanted
Device that contains encapsulated cells that
produce insulin, plus a tiny
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oxygen-producing factory that keeps the cells healthy.
Respiratory Diseases
Pulmonary drug delivery is the best approach for curing respiratory diseases such as asthma,
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, allergic rhinitis, acute respiratory distress syndrome,
etc. In this drug delivery, drugs are inhaled and once they reach the lungs, it is absorbed into
the blood. It causes no problems with inhaled drugs used to treat asthma or COPD.
Ophthalmic Diseases
Topical drug delivery system is the most
widely used strategy to treat ophthalmic
diseases. Recently, contact lens-based drug
delivery systems have gained popularity
owing to their advantages of sustained drug
delivery, prolonged drug retention,
improved bioavailability, and few drug side
effects. Ophthalmic diseases like keratitis,
conjunctivitis, dry eye disease, glaucoma,
uveitis, etc are easily cured by this method.
Fig. 2.5.4: DDS usage treateing Opthalmic Diseases
Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune diseases result from a dysfunctional immune system in which the body attacks
its own organs, tissues, cells, and macromolecules. Targeting therapy for autoimmune
diseases faces two major challenges: (1) identification of autoreactive cells that can be
targeted for suppression; and (2) penetration through target tissues to specifically deliver
drugs to the desired cells and thus achieve sufficient therapeutic efficacy. Regarding the latter,
multiple drug delivery approaches have been developed. Targeted delivery of protected
antigens directly to immune cells ensures efficient, safe, and nonspecific damage.
Gastrointestinal Diseases
The oral route of administration is the most preferred route by patients for gastrointestinal
drug delivery. However, the performance of the dosage forms and drug absorption are highly
dependent on the physiology of the Gastrointestinal tract. However, nanoparticle-based drug
delivery offers a great platform for targeted drug delivery for gastrointestinal disorders. The
use of multi-particle dosage systems, such as nanoparticles, has shown promising results in
improving gastrointestinal drug delivery compared to single-unit dose formulations.
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3. Conclusion
In conclusion, drug delivery systems play a pivotal role in revolutionizing medical treatments
for various diseases, offering targeted and controlled release of drugs to enhance efficacy
while minimizing side effects. The field of drug delivery is dynamic and continually
evolving, driven by advancements such as precision medicine, nanotechnology, smart drug
delivery systems, and personalized therapies.
Various routes of drug administration, from oral to implantable devices, provide diverse
options for delivering drugs based on factors such as drug properties, targeted areas, and
patient preferences. Novel drug delivery systems, including nanotechnology-based delivery,
sustained and controlled release systems, and smart drug delivery, showcase the adaptability
and innovation within the field.
Specifically, in the context of inflammatory diseases, drug delivery systems demonstrate their
application by precisely targeting inflamed tissues, reducing systemic side effects, ensuring
sustained release for long-term treatment, and utilizing biodegradable nanoparticles to
minimize long-term side effects. Personalized drug delivery tailored to individual profiles
enhances therapeutic interventions, while controlled release systems help prevent flare-ups,
contributing to improved disease management and patient quality of life.
Moreover, disease-specific drug delivery systems cater to the unique challenges of various
medical conditions, such as cancer, neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, infectious
diseases, diabetes, respiratory diseases, ophthalmic diseases, autoimmune disorders, and
gastrointestinal diseases. Each of these applications showcases the versatility and potential
impact of drug delivery in addressing specific challenges associated with diverse health
conditions.
In summary, the ongoing advancements in drug delivery systems hold promise for creating
safer, more effective, and patient-friendly medical treatments, fostering collaborations among
pharmaceutical companies, researchers, engineers, and healthcare providers. The
convergence of technology and healthcare continues to drive innovation, providing
unprecedented opportunities to address the complexities of diseases with precision and
efficacy.
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4. Recommendations
4.1 Integration of Digital Health Technologies: Incorporating digital health tools, such as
sensors, wearables, and mobile applications, can enhance drug delivery monitoring, patient
adherence, and personalized treatment plans.
4.2 Advancements in Nanotechnology: Continued research and development in
nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems can lead to more targeted and efficient
treatments, minimizing side effects and improving therapeutic outcomes.
4.3 Smart Drug Delivery Systems: Further exploration and implementation of smart drug
delivery systems that respond to specific physiological cues, such as pH or enzyme
concentration, can optimize drug release and improve overall treatment efficacy.
4.4 Personalized Medicine Approaches: Tailoring drug delivery systems to individual
patient profiles, considering genetic, physiological, and lifestyle factors, can lead to more
effective and personalized therapeutic interventions.
4.5 3D Printing Technology: Leveraging 3D printing for customized medication and drug
delivery devices can provide tailored solutions for patients, improving treatment adherence
and outcomes.
4.6 Biosensors and Closed-Loop Delivery Systems: Advancements in biosensors integrated
with closed-loop drug delivery systems can enable real-time monitoring of biological
markers, allowing for adaptive and precise drug administration.
4.7 Global Health Solutions: Developing drug delivery systems that address global health
challenges, such as infectious diseases and vaccine distribution, can contribute to improving
healthcare accessibility worldwide.
4.8 Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Research: Encouraging collaboration between
pharmaceutical companies, researchers, engineers, and healthcare providers is crucial for
fostering innovation in drug delivery. Interdisciplinary research can lead to groundbreaking
solutions.
4.9 Regulatory Considerations: Proactive engagement with regulatory bodies to establish
clear guidelines and standards for emerging drug delivery technologies can facilitate their
efficient and safe integration into healthcare practices.
4.10 Patient Education and Engagement: Educating patients about the benefits of advanced
drug delivery systems and encouraging active participation in their healthcare can enhance
treatment adherence and overall health outcomes.
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5. Appendix
Questionnaire
Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology
A survey on
Drug Delivery
(Only for Academic Purposes)
Dear Reader,
Please express your valuable opinion on Drug Delivery.
Please put a tick (✔) mark beside your answer or give short answers:
1. Demographic Information:
Name: Age: Gender:
2. General Awareness:
- Have you ever heard about drug delivery systems before?
- Yes - No
3. Understanding of Drug Delivery:
- How would you define the term "drug delivery" in your own words?
—
4. Common Drug Delivery Methods:
- Which of the following drug delivery methods are you familiar with? (Select all that
apply)
- Oral - Injection - Topical - Inhalation - Others (please specify)
5. Preference for Drug Delivery:
- If given a choice, which method of drug delivery do you find most convenient or
comfortable?
—
6. Awareness of Personalized Medicine:
- Are you aware of personalized medicine and how it relates to drug delivery?
- Yes -No
7. Concerns about Drug Delivery:
- Do you have any concerns or fears related to drug delivery methods? If yes, please
specify.
—
8. Access to Drug Delivery Information:
- How do you typically seek information about drug delivery methods?
- Healthcare professionals - Internet - Friends/Family - Other (please specify)
9. Impact of Drug Delivery on Medication Adherence:
- Do you think the method of drug delivery affects your likelihood of taking medication as
prescribed?
- Yes -No -Not sure
10. Suggestions for Improvement:
- If you could suggest improvements or innovations in drug delivery methods, what would
they be?
11. Future Interest:
- Would you be interested in learning more about advancements in drug delivery
technologies?
- Yes -No
Thank you for taking the time to complete this questionnaire! Your input is valuable in
understanding public perspectives on drug delivery.
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6. List of References
www.biomedcentral.com
www.frontiersin.org
www.futurescience.com
www.nature.com
www.nlm.nih.gov
www.phoreusbiotech.com
www.sciencedirect.com
www.tandfonline.com
www.wikipedia.org
7. Bibliography
Jain, Kewal K., Ed, 2014, Drug Delivery System, Second Edition, New York: Humana
Press.
Mitra, Ahim K., Kwatra, Deep and Vadlapudi, Aswani Dutt, Eds, 2015, Drug
Delivery, First Edition, Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Sudhakar, Dr. Yajaman and Jayaveera, Dr. K.N., 2014, Novel Drug Delivery System
and Regulatory Affairs, First Edition, New Delhi, India: S. Chand & Company Pvt.
Ltd.
Sezer, Ali Demir, Ed, 2016, Smart Drug Delivery System, First Edition, Croatia:
InTech
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8. Glossary
1. Barrier: Protective separation, such as the blood-brain barrier.
2. Biodegradable: Materials breaking down naturally in the body over time.
3. Bioavailability: Proportion of a drug entering the bloodstream and producing an effect.
4. Biosensors: Devices using biological elements to detect specific chemicals.
5. Chemotherapy: Treatment using drugs to specifically target cancer cells.
6. Combination: Products combining multiple regulated components for a single purpose.
7. Contact Lens: Vision aid worn on the eye, used in drug delivery.
8. Hydrogels: Three-dimensional networks of polymers for controlled drug release.
9. Implantables: Medical devices placed inside the body for controlled drug release.
10. Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to fight cancer cells.
11. Intraocular: Drug administration directly into the eye.
12. Monitoring: Continuous tracking of physiological parameters.
13. Nanotechnology: Manipulation of materials at the nanoscale for various applications.
14. Personalized: Tailoring medical treatment to individual characteristics.
15. Precision: Tailoring interventions based on individual patient characteristics.
16. Regulatory: Adherence to regulations ensuring safety, efficacy, and quality.
17. Respiratory: Relating to the respiratory system.
18. Smart Systems: Drug delivery systems responding to physiological cues for controlled
release.
19. 3D Printing: Creating three-dimensional objects layer by layer from digital models.
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