"The more difficult the delivery system and the more frequently
medication is needed, the more difficult it is for patients to
adhere to their drug regimens," Dr. Langer said. "Because of
recent innovations, patient compliance is improving tremendously
and new treatments are being ushered in." Dr. Langer spoke today
at an American Medical Association media briefing on patient
communication and adherence in New York City. The future of drug
delivery systems will involve "smart" systems, Dr. Langer said.
"These would address the issue of keeping the drug at a desired
therapeutic level in the body while avoiding the need for
frequent administration." One such system under study uses the
detection of chemical signals in the body to prompt the release
of drugs. Another being tested uses microchips placed under the
skin or into the spinal cord or brain to deliver drugs ranging
from pain medication to chemotherapy. The microchips are
designed with wells that are loaded with drugs and covered with
gold foil caps--the