The Power of Parenteral: Excipients for Injectable Formulations
While oral formulations are the most common, a large number of biologic drugs, such as vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, are administered parenterally (via injection). This route of administration places unique demands on the drug formulation and, by extension, the excipients used. Excipients for parenteral formulations must be of the highest purity and must meet strict standards for sterility and safety.
In injectable formulations, excipients play a vital role in ensuring the drug's solubility and stability in an aqueous solution. They must also control the pH and tonicity of the solution, making it compatible with the patient's body fluids and minimizing pain or irritation at the injection site. This requires a precise balance of excipients to create a safe and effective final product.
The growth of the biologics market is closely tied to the demand for parenteral formulations, driving a continuous need for excipients that can support these complex and sensitive products. The development of new and advanced injectable delivery systems, such as autoinjectors, further fuels this demand, requiring excipients that can function effectively in a more controlled environment.
FAQs
What is a parenteral formulation? It is a drug formulation that is administered via injection, such as a vaccine or an antibody.
Why are excipients for parenteral formulations so important? They are crucial for ensuring the drug's solubility, stability, and safety in an injectable solution, and for making it compatible with the patient's body.