Understanding the role of chronopharmacology for drug optimization: what do we know?

Circadian rhythm influences the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of a number of drugs and affects their therapeutic efficacy and toxicity depending on the time of day they are administered. Chronopharmacology is a method for incorporating knowledge about circadian rhythm into pharmacotherapy. Chronotherapy, which is the clinical application of chronopharmacology, is particularly relevant when the risk and/or severity of symptoms of a disease change in a predictable manner over time. Chronotherapy has potential benefits in the treatment of many diseases.

Although a considerable amount of knowledge about chronopharmacology and chronotherapy has been accumulated, its therapeutic application in clinical practice remains limited in terms of therapy optimization. Resolution of these issues will improve our ability to deliver adequate drug treatment.

We propose four approaches for promoting chronotherapy-based drug treatment in clinical practice: targeting drug development and regulatory authorities; education about chronotherapy; drug information for both health professionals and consumers; and a chronotherapy network.