Polyester-based long acting injectables: Advancements in molecular dynamics simulation and technological insights

Drug Discov Today. 2023 Feb;28(2):103463. doi: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103463. Epub 2022 Dec 5.

Abstract

Long-acting injectable (LAI) delivery technologies have enabled the development of several pharmaceutical products that improve patient health by delivering therapeutics from weeks to months. Over the last decade, due to its good biocompatibility, formulation tunability, wide range of degradation rates, and extensive clinical studies, polyester-based LAI technologies including poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) have made substantial progress. Herein, we discuss PLGA properties with seminal approaches in the development of LAIs, the role of molecular dynamic simulations of polymer-drug interactions, and their effects on quality attributes. We also outline the landscape of various advanced PLGA-based and a few non-PLGA LAI technologies; their design, delivery, and challenges from laboratory scale to preclinical and clinical use; and commercial products incorporating the importance of end-user preferences.

Keywords: PLGA, PLGA long-acting systems; PLGA-enabling technologies; PLGA-molecular dynamics and simulations; long-acting injectables.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Molecular Dynamics Simulation*
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • Polyesters*
  • Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer
  • Polymers

Substances

  • Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer
  • Polyesters
  • Polymers
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations