Pulsatile Drug Delivery System: Current scenario

Conventionally, drugs are released in an instant or absolute manner. Nevertheless, in current days, Pulsatile Drug Release Systems (PDRS) are gaining upward attention. Pulsatile delivery is defined as the rapid and transient release of certain amounts of drug molecules within a short time period immediately after a predetermined off-release period, i.e., lag time. PDRS can be classified in single and multiple pulse systems. This system provides spatial and temporal delivery of the drug. These systems are designed according to the circadian rhythm or biological clock of the body. These deliver the drug at the right time and at the right place and in the right amount thus increasing patient compliance. Pulsatile systems are beneficial for drugs where night time dosing is required, such as anti-asthmatic and anti-arrhythmic drugs where the disease severity is time dependent. This concept has several advantages, notably maximum therapeutic benefit, minimum harm, improved patient convenience and compliance. Pharmacists must realize the need to develop and dispense such medications having potential therapeutic benefit. The current article focuses on the diseases requiring PDDS, methodologies involved for the existing systems, and PDDS product currently available in the market.