Critical challenges to the design of drug-eluting medical devices

Drug-eluting devices cover a wide variety of possible product concepts. The design constraints for modified or sustained local delivery technologies that are compatible with medical devices are quite different from those constraints with any conventional dosage forms. To develop a successful development strategy from proof-of-concept to commercialization, it is of paramount importance to assess how drug delivery affects the desired mechanism of action of such combination products. Starting at the feasibility stage, the project team must have a clear understanding of the performance targets expected by patients and physicians/surgeons. In addition, R&D staff must anticipate and proactively address the differences in technical, quality and regulatory requirements from drug delivery and medical device perspectives. Through the eyes of drug delivery, this article will describe common challenges encountered in the development of drug-eluting devices and offer relevant mitigation strategies.