Abstract
Delivering therapeutic agents to the respiratory tract has so far been the first line of treatment for asthma, making use of bronchodilators, steroids and mast cell stabilisers. In addition, the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as respiratory infections, has also been a classic target for local inhalation therapies. The lung has limited enzymatic activity compared to the gastrointestinal tract, and a rich blood supply via the tremendously large capillary network. Confining the therapeutic agent in the airways has proven useful for both maximising its concentration in lung tissue while using small doses which decrease systemic exposure as much as possible. In addition, when formulated for the lower respiratory tract, systemic absorption is promoted, and the potential for delivery of systemic agents becomes an option.
Original language | English |
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Pages | 20-25 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Volume | 2010 |
No. | Spring |
Specialist publication | Pharmaceutical Manufacturing and Packing Sourcer |
Publication status | Published - Mar 2010 |
Externally published | Yes |