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Colonic drug delivery systems: Exploring the potential of biodegradable polymers for systemic effects

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Review Article

Author Details : Gangadi Jayapal Reddy*, Pavan Kumar Kokkula, M. Kannadasan

Volume : 9, Issue : 4, Year : 2024

Article Page : 221-226

https://doi.org/10.18231/j.ijcaap.2024.033

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Abstract

Targeted drug delivery to the colon is highly desirable for the local treatment of various bowel diseases, including ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, amebiasis, and colonic cancer, as well as for the systemic delivery of protein and peptide drugs. The colon-specific drug delivery system (CDDS) must protect the drug during transit through the stomach and small intestine, ensuring that release and absorption occur only in the colon. The colon is an ideal site for drug absorption due to its lower enzymatic activity compared to the small intestine, which helps protect peptide drugs from degradation, and its long residence time, which enhances systemic bioavailability.While the oral route is the most convenient for CDDS, rectal administration is also used, though it can be uncomfortable and less effective for targeting the proximal colon. Intrarectal drug preparations, such as solutions, foams, and suppositories, are used for both systemic dosing and local treatment of the large intestine. The efficacy of these drugs often depends on their formulation, spreading capacity, and retention time.The colon’s high water absorption capacity and viscous contents can limit drug availability to the absorptive membrane. However, the presence of a diverse bacterial flora in the colon can be leveraged for drug metabolism and targeted delivery of peptide-based macromolecules, such as insulin. Understanding the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), including variations in pH, is crucial for designing effective CDDS. This knowledge helps optimize drug release and absorption, ultimately improving therapeutic outcomes for patients.

Keywords: Colon­specific drug delivery, Ulcerative colitis, Peptide drugs, Gastrointestinal tract (GIT), Enzymatic degradation

How to cite : Reddy G J, Kokkula P K, Kannadasan M, Colonic drug delivery systems: Exploring the potential of biodegradable polymers for systemic effects. IP Int J Compr Adv Pharmacol 2024;9(4):221-226

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