Abstract

INNOVATIONS IN GASTRO - RETENTIVE DRUG DELIVERY: “A PATHWAY TO ENHANCED MEDICATION EFFICIENCY”

Davinder Singh Saini, Kavita Kumari* and Sanjiv Duggal

Abstract

Gastroretentive drug delivery systems (GRDDS) are made to remain in the stomach for prolonged durations, slowly releasing drugs at a controlled rate. GRDDS allow drugs to act best in the upper part of the stomach or intestine, such as ulcers or require frequent dosing, to remain where they get absorbed best. GRDDS enhance therapeutic performance, minimise dosing frequency, and maximise patient compliance. Problems exist, however, in the form of short retention times in the stomach and perturbed stomach evacuation, which might push drugs prematurely out of their position. Units such as float tablets, sinking devices, or adhesive drug formats enable drugs to remain in place. The systems suit medicines that are labile in the lower intestine or rapidly metabolised by the liver. The units do not include acid-sensitive medicine or superior, absorbed-in-the-lower-intestine medicines. Overall, GRDDS strike a balance between advantage and prudent drug choice and clever design.

Keywords: gastro retentive system, drug bioavailability, retention time, controlled release.