Pharma, Pharmaceutics and Biotechnology Conference

The rapid development and deployment of COVID-19 therapeutics highlight the critical role effective drug delivery systems are playing. These are important drivers for ensuring vaccines, antiviral medications, and monoclonal antibodies are administered in a safe and efficient way to maximize therapeutic impact. This session will discuss innovations and challenges attending drug delivery systems specifically designed to counter SARS-CoV-2.Delivering vaccines has become the new focus in the fight against COVID-19.

In the case of mRNA vaccines from Pfizer-Biotech and Modern, the lipid nanoparticles encapsulated the mRNA for the delivery into human cells. This technology does not only stabilize the mRNA but also facilitates its uptake by cells efficiently to help induce an immune response through production of the spike protein. In addition, logistical issues from the standpoint of cold chain requirements for these vaccines form the basis for robust delivery systems so that vaccines do not become nonviable when transported or stored. Delivery systems other than parenteral injections provide better patient compliance and efficacy. Intranasal delivery systems seem to offer rapid systemic absorption as well as localized immune responses.

In addition, intranasal vaccines targeting mucosal immunity may also improve mucosal immunity protection against respiratory viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2. Another step in this line is the advancement of transdermal patches that can deliver vaccine and are, therefore, needle-free, making it easier to access and accept the vaccine among hesitant populations. Another important role in controlling COVID-19 is the delivery system for the antiviral drug. Oral antiviral drugs such as Paxlovid must be sufficiently absorbed in the GI tract to reach therapeutic concentration.

New formulations like Nano emulsions are investigated to produce enhanced bioavailability of these drugs, permitting greater treatment of patients infected. Monoclonal antibodies represent yet another class of drug that requires innovative delivery systems. While intravenous has been the traditional route for such drugs, subcutaneous and intramuscular are now gaining more attention because these routes would simplify administration for some patients, and may improve compliance in patients, particularly since current treatment protocols in many instances require a period of hospital stay.

With the continued evolution of this pandemic, the needs from drug delivery systems are not eradicated but instead continue to grow. This requires careful consideration of the distribution logistics, storage conditions, and patient adherence toward making the COVID-19 therapeutics effective. Discuss the state-of-the-art in delivery systems for drugs targeted for COVID-19 treatments by what innovations were produced as opposed to those remaining challenges towards ensuring effective therapeutic delivery.

Discuss, too, the implications for public health strategies of this new trend in drug delivery and future horizons for strategic use in infectious disease management.