REVIEW ON: PULSATILE DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM

Pharmacy

Oral controlled drug delivery systems offer several advantages over conventional immediate release dosage forms by maintaining therapeutic drug concentrations for prolonged periods. However, many chronic diseases such as asthma, arthritis, cardiovascular disorders, and diabetes exhibit circadian rhythms, demanding time-scheduled drug release for optimal therapeutic outcomes. Chronomodulated drug delivery systems (CHDDS) are designed to synchronize drug availability with biological rhythms, thereby maximizing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. Pulsatile drug delivery systems (PDDS), a promising approach within CHDDS, release drugs in a rapid and burst manner following a programmable lag time. Various single-unit systems (e.g., Pulsincap®, Port® system, Time Clock® system) and multiple-unit systems employing rupturable or erodible coatings have been developed to achieve precise lag-controlled release. These systems are particularly beneficial for drugs with extensive first-pass metabolism, short or long half-lives, or those requiring site-specific release. Despite challenges such as complex manufacturing and higher costs, PDDS provide significant clinical benefits including improved bioavailability, reduced side effects, better patient compliance, and effective chronotherapy. Thus, pulsatile drug delivery represents a vital advancement for managing diseases influenced by circadian variations.

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