Pharmaceutical industry has been continuously evolving and innovating in its approach to provide medical solutions benefiting patients. In the last few years, a new era of science and technology has emerged in pharmaceutical research with focus on developing novel drug delivery systems for oral administration. Conventional dosage forms like tablets and capsules are associated with a low bioavailability, frequent application, side effects and hence patient noncompliance. “To liberate the drug at the right time in a right amount of concentration at a specified target site” is the major objective of a drug delivery system. By developing novel strategies for drug delivery, researchers embraced an alternative to traditional drug delivery systems.
Market demand and technological advancements:
One of the primary drivers behind the shift towards newer dosage formats in India and the world has been the changing demands of consumers. With a growing emphasis on convenience and patient-centric care, there has been a surge in demand for dosage forms that are easy to administer and offer improved efficacy. Concurrently, advancements in pharmaceutical technology have enabled the development of innovative formulations such as extended-release tablets, transdermal patches, and oral films, which offer enhanced therapeutic outcomes and patient compliance.
Consumer education and investment in research:
Increased awareness among healthcare professionals about the benefits of newer dosage formats has been instrumental in driving their acceptance and adoption in clinical practice. Moreover, pharmaceutical companies in India are now investing heavily in research and development to innovate new dosage forms, including improving drug delivery systems, enhancing bioavailability, and developing patient-friendly formulations. This commitment to innovation reflects the industry’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of patients and healthcare providers.
Lozenges : Reshaping drug dosage formats
One such innovation that has been gaining traction in recent years is the use of lozenges as a drug dosage format. This shift is driven by several key advantages that lozenges offer over traditional pill-based medication. Currently, the Indian market share for medicated lozenges is expected to grow at 18 – 20% per annum.
CEO & Whole Time Director
JB Pharma
Lozenges present a breakthrough in precision dosage administration. Unlike pills, which may vary in their dissolution rates and absorption patterns, lozenges offer a more controlled and predictable release of medication. This is particularly crucial for drugs with a narrow therapeutic index, where even slight deviations in dosage can have significant consequences. Lozenges due to its format and drug release mechanism ensure that the patients receive the exact amount of medication required for optimal therapeutic effect. This controlled release mechanism addresses a critical aspect of drug administration – the need for a steady and consistent supply of medication. Fluctuations in drug levels within the body can lead to suboptimal treatment outcomes or unwanted side effects. Lozenges mitigate this concern by providing a reliable and uniform delivery of medication. Patients can trust that each lozenge contains the precise dosage needed for their treatment, instilling confidence in the therapeutic process.
Targeted localised therapy
Lozenges provide a unique advantage in delivering medications directly to specific regions within the body. For conditions that require localised treatment, such as sore throats, oral infections, or oral mucosal lesions, lozenges offer a targeted approach. The prolonged contact time of the lozenge with the affected area allows for enhanced absorption and efficacy. This localised therapy can lead to faster but sustained relief and a reduction in systemic side effects.
The Indian pharmaceutical industry’s shift from conventional to novel dosage formats represents a larger movement in the direction of innovation and patient-centered treatment. The sector is positioned to provide better therapeutic outcomes and healthcare delivery for patients worldwide as it continues to change due to market dynamics, technology breakthroughs and regulatory backing. Indian pharmaceutical businesses are driving innovation and excellence in healthcare towards a future of quality and innovation through their dedication to quality, research investment, and collaboration.
