Review article: Targeted drug delivery in treatment of intestinal diseases

Topical therapy within the treatment of intestinal diseases presents realistic formulation challenges for targeted drug delivery. Some relevant oral formulation concepts are reviewed. The basic principles employed are based mainly on differences in pH and metabolic activity between the different parts of the gastrointestinal tract. A successful example of targeted drug delivery within the treatment of Crohn's disease is presented. Topical therapy for the treatment of ulcerative colitis is also discussed. Physiological variations and influence of the disease and disease status present major challenges when deciding upon a suitable formulation principle.