Abstract

Biodegradable Polymer Based Depot Injections – Overview and Challenges - Case Studies of Marketed Products

Dhiraj Chopra, Associate Director, Dr Reddys Laboratories Limited

Biodegradable polymer based depot injection formulations have been there in the market for almost last three decades or even more. Whole such depot injection segment is enjoying market value of more than 10 billion US $ across the globe with very few players in the market. Patient's compliance (say one injection in a month) is the unique selling proposition for such depot injections. Technology barrier has been the key for limited entrants in this segment. Such microspheres based formualtions are processed using various solvent casting techniques, involving complex & multiple unit operations. Selection of biodegradable polymer is critical to achieve the desired IVR patterrn. Scale up of such biodegradable polymer based depot injection under aseptic conditions is another challenge. An overview on development of such depot injections will be discussed.