Drug Delivery and Biopharmaceutics

About Course

This module on Pharmaceuticals provides an in-depth exploration of the principles and practices involved in the formulation, delivery, and biopharmaceutical considerations of drugs. It aims to equip students with the essential knowledge required for understanding the complex processes of drug development and delivery, focusing on the factors that influence the effectiveness and safety of pharmaceuticals.

Key topics covered include:

• Drug Formulation and Delivery:
  • Solubility & Dissolution: An examination of the solubility and dissolution properties of drugs, crucial for understanding how drugs are absorbed in the body.
  • Drug Stability & Shelf-life: Insights into the factors affecting drug stability, including environmental conditions, and the implications for drug shelf-life.
  • Solid Dosage Forms: Detailed exploration of the preparation and characteristics of solid dosage forms such as tablets and capsules, focusing on their design and manufacturing processes.
  • Liquid Dosage Forms: An overview of the formulation of liquid dosage forms, including solutions, suspensions, and emulsions, and their application in drug delivery.
  • Inhalation & Topical Preparations: Study of the specialised formulations used for inhalation and topical delivery, emphasising the unique challenges and advantages of these routes of administration.
• Biopharmaceutics:
  • Factors Affecting Drug Absorption: An in-depth analysis of the physiological and formulation-related factors that impact drug absorption, influencing the overall effectiveness of drug therapy.
  • Bioavailability: Understanding the concept of bioavailability, including its measurement and the factors that can alter the bioavailability of drugs.
  • Bioequivalence: Exploration of bioequivalence studies, their significance in drug development, and the regulatory requirements for demonstrating bioequivalence between drug products.

Through detailed lessons, targeted practice questions, and practical case studies, students will gain not only a robust understanding of pharmaceutical formulation and delivery but also critical insights into the biopharmaceutical considerations essential for ensuring drug safety and efficacy. This module serves as a strong foundation for further studies and careers in pharmaceutical sciences, preparing students for the complexities of clinical practice and research.