Sustained drug release

Sustained drug release is not a biological molecule, receptor, or therapeutic target, but rather a pharmaceutical drug delivery concept and pharmacokinetic profile. It refers to the design of a dosage form intended to release an active pharmaceutical ingredient at a controlled rate to maintain a steady therapeutic concentration in the bloodstream for a prolonged period, typically ranging from 12 hours to several months (NIH StatPearls, 2023; ScienceDirect, 2021). By controlling the release rate, this approach minimizes the 'peak and trough' fluctuations in drug plasma levels associated with immediate-release medications, thereby reducing potential side effects and improving patient adherence by decreasing dosing frequency (US FDA, 2022). Common technologies utilized to achieve sustained release include insoluble polymer matrices, pH-dependent coatings, and injectable oily depots or microspheres (Journal of Controlled Release, 2020). Because 'Sustained drug release' describes a delivery strategy and not a physiological entity like an enzyme or transporter, it is classified as an incorrect entry for a target database.

Other names

Extended releaseControlled releaseSlow releaseLong-acting releaseDepot formulationDelayed release

The mechanism involves the use of specialized pharmaceutical formulations (such as polymer matrices, osmotic pumps, or biodegradable microspheres) to release an active drug substance at a predetermined, controlled rate rather than all at once upon administration.