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Liposomal Formulation Makes Medication Delivery Safer And More Effective

By Mayra Pierce


Nanotechnology is a branch of science that manipulates materials on a molecular and atomic level. Liposomes are artificially created microscopic bubbles composed of materials similar to human cell membranes called phospholipids, portions of which are alternately repelled or attracted to water. Liposomal formulation is a process that creates these structures for a more effective use in the delivery of medications.

The significance of these very small vesicular forms that are able to enclose molecules soluble in water became apparent soon after being introduced during the 1960s. Pharmacists and research scientists became keenly aware of their potential to improve methods of drug delivery when fighting cancer and other serious illness. They encourage more accurate targeting of malicious cells while avoiding issues that plague other forms of administration.

The concept they use is radically different because it does not depend of standard modes of absorption typical of IV or oral administration. Conventional chemical processes can make management of specialized drugs more difficult. They are indiscriminate in their toxicity, and affect healthy organs as well, resulting in unnecessary damage and more lengthy recovery. When delivered via liposomes, release of toxic medication can be better controlled.

The molecules of a drug are suspended in water within the structure of the artificial cell, which is surrounded by a manufactured membrane. The formulating process of specifically designed liposomes transforms them into mechanisms ideal for transporting hydrophilic drugs, or those that are attracted to water and dissolve effectively. Current methods produce two primary forms called unilammelar and multilammelar, and subcategories include varying sizes.

Molecules of a particular drug are encased within a membrane, and can be transferred to the targeted cells upon activation. They can be effectively released into an organism by fusing specific layers with other living cells, which delivers the tiny doses they contain. Other methods of release use reactive chemicals that also encourage diffusion at the molecular level. The overall result is a more controllable, steady release.

This process is not only more effectively managed, but is also bio-compatible with human cells, and leaves no additional toxic residue. Some recently developed types of these capsules can be activated using ultrasound, which increases their efficacy in the locations where they are most needed. Others are dispensed via the respiratory system, and are directly deposited into the lungs and then slowly released, reducing overall toxicity.

It is still costly to manufacture these microscopic capsules for medical use. As continuing research produces a growing number of uses for this kind of nanotechnology, the overall expense will decline, but will not become cheap. Because this is relatively new technology in many ways, there are issues that still must be resolved. Some types of structures have experienced cellular leaking, and others have been affected by oxidation.

Like some other medical innovations, liposomes are now being introduced into consumer products. They are currently promoted as a beneficial way to administer herbal, vitamin and mineral supplements, and some individuals have created their own unique formulations. Although commercial applications produce controversy regarding efficacy, the continued development of new processes provides the basis for more effective medical uses.




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