Gastroretentive Drug Delivery Systems

Gastroretention to improve the outcome of oral drug delivery has been explored since the 1980s and enjoys continuing interest – as signified by the clinical trials, new startup companies, and types of technologies that are being investigated. Gastroretentive drug delivery systems (GRDDS) rely on the interaction of physical properties of the dosage form with the inherent human gastric anatomy and physiology to achieve prolonged gastric retention of the drug molecule. Bouyant, swellable, and expandable systems are the most advanced, especially in late stage development and commercial products. In addition to technology platforms, this chapter explores the interfaces of biology, niche applications of these strategies and technology, and the drug development path both nonclinical and clinical to develop a viable product.