Inhalable formulations in pharmacy: from basic research to clinical applications

doi:10.5246/jcps.2025.06.038

Abstract

Abstract:

In recent years, the rising prevalence of respiratory diseases, coupled with advancements in biotechnology and pharmacology, has positioned inhalable formulations as a preferred method of drug administration. This approach enables direct and rapid delivery of medication to the lungs, maximizing therapeutic effects while minimizing dosage and potential side effects. In this review, we meticulously examined current literature and clinical trial databases to present a comprehensive overview of three key areas: (1) inhalation devices currently utilized in clinical settings; (2) the clinical applications of approved inhalable formulations; and (3) preclinical research on inhalable treatments targeting various lung conditions, including pulmonary infections, tuberculosis, lung cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, as well as systemic diseases like Parkinson’s disease. The objective was to delve into both foundational research and the clinical use of inhalable formulations within the pharmaceutical field, with the aim of fostering their broader adoption and guiding the development of inhalable therapies for a more comprehensive range of diseases.

Key words: Inhalable formulations, Inhalation device, Inhaled vaccine, Pulmonary infection, Inhalable nanomedicine

Supporting:

Yuying Yan, Xuebin Yang, Zhaoshuai Ji. Inhalable formulations in pharmacy: from basic research to clinical applications[J]. Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 34(6): 503-518.

Figures/Tables 9

Table 1. Advantages and disadvantages of different administrations.

Table 2. Specific information on different inhalation devices.

Table 3. Summary of commonly used inhaled drugs in the clinic.

Table 4. Introduction of inhaled drugs for preclinical pulmonary infections.

Table 5. Summary of demographic data[44].

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