Developing pediatric drug formulations poses unique challenges, as children's needs vary significantly by age. Creating these formulations involves more than simply scaling down adult doses. Strength, dosage form, and excipients must be tailored to ensure safety, effectiveness, and usability for the pediatric population, requiring specialized skills distinct from those needed for adult treatments.
Children react differently to drugs compared to adults, with variations even among different age groups. This can lead to unexpected pharmacokinetics and changes in clinical efficacy. Additionally, the development rates of children's organs, body systems, and enzymes affect how their bodies process medications. For example, developmental changes in the gastrointestinal tract and skin can significantly impact a drug's bioavailability. To address these complexities and create patient-centric pediatric formulations, drug developers must consider these developmental factors. For a deeper understanding, read our whitepaper.
