Industry Update: the latest developments in therapeutic delivery.

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Science
• Biotechnology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• The drug delivery market is dynamic, with significant deal-making activity observed in 2013 and projected to continue in 2014.
• Annual reports released in February highlighted past, present, and future trends in drug delivery.
• The healthcare industry saw nearly 400 drug delivery deals in 2013, totaling US$2.3 billion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an industry update on drug delivery developments for February 2014.
• To analyze trends in partnerships, regulatory approvals, and technological advancements in drug delivery.

Main Methods:

• Information was gathered from company press releases, regulatory and patent agencies.
• Scientific literature was reviewed for relevant publications.
• Market reports on drug delivery developments were analyzed.

Main Results:

• A trend of increased deal-making in targeted drug delivery is continuing into 2014.
• Major pharmaceutical companies are engaging in closer collaborations or acquisitions of drug delivery specialists.
• Regulatory approvals and re-evaluations (e.g., iontophoresis) occurred, alongside some delays.
• Advancements in drug-delivery devices (e.g., inner-ear delivery) and particles (e.g., triggered supraparamagnetic particles) are progressing rapidly.

Conclusions:

• The drug delivery sector is characterized by robust partnership activity and increasing investment.
• Technological sophistication and miniaturization of drug delivery systems are advancing at an accelerated pace.
• Strategic collaborations and acquisitions are key drivers in the evolving drug delivery landscape.