Checkpoint: Protein Article Search, Article Review Example

In this scientific journal article, B.K. Nanjwade, D.J. Patel, R.A. Udhani, and F.V. Manvi discuss at length oral lipid-based products that have been found to significantly “reduce the inherent limitation of slow and incomplete dissolution of poorly water-soluble drugs,” thus making the absorption of certain drugs in the human body more complete (2011, p. 706). Because of this trait, the demand for lipid-based products as suitable drug carrier systems continues to grow, not to mention that such drug carrier systems “can be manufactured as solutions, suspensions, emulsions, self-emulsifying systems and micro-emulsions” (2011, p. 706).

The authors then proceed to explore the impact of the GI (gastrointestinal) tract on lipids and lipid-based formulations via the digestion of triglycerides, the physical chemistry, absorption, and solubilisation of lipid digestion products, and lipids and intestinal permeability. Next, the authors discuss the various factors that affect the bioavailability of lipid-based formulations through a model for lipid digestion and a schematic diagram of the fate of lipids in the gut. Following these two sections, the authors examine crucial issues during the development of isotropic lipid solutions; lipid formulations and oral bioavailability; the digestibility of the lipid vehicles; novel lipid formulations as carrier systems, such as liposomes, polymeric substances, solid lipid nanoparticles, and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems; and currently marketed lipid-based dosage forms like oral solutions and suspensions.

The authors then conclude that “Lipid-based formulations are an important tool for water-insoluble drugs as they offer the potential for enhancing drug absorption and oral bioavailability” and note how the GI tract “influences the performance of lipid-based formulations” (2011, p. 722). Lastly, the authors declare that “solid dosage forms of lipid formulations can improve stability” yet hold the potential to lower drug loading and increase drug crystallization (2011, p. 722). At the end of this article, Nanjwade, Patel, Udhani, and Manvi provide a complete list of references (fifty-one in total) that were utilized as research guides for the composition of their report.

References

Nanjwade, B.K., Patel, D.J., Udhani, R.A., & Manvi, F.V. (2011). Functions of lipids for enhancement of oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluable drugs. Scientia Pharmaceutica, 79, 705-727.