Biotechnology: an overview of the tools, therapeutic agents, and applications to pharmacy practice

The promise of pharmaceutical biotechnology and its applications to health care is now being realized. Over 30 therapeutic agents produced by the tools of biotechnology are now available and nearly 300 more are in various stages of development. Recombinant proteins, monoclonal antibodies, gene therapy, and vaccines can provide effective treatments and cures for diseases we could only mitigate in the past. The availability of these drugs presents several interesting challenges and opportunities to pharmacists. The expense, complexity, and unique properties of biotechnology agents will continue to alter not only the knowledge base of pharmacy but also the way pharmacists perform their professional responsibilities.