#South Korea #Seoul #Semaglutide #Daewoong Therapeutics #Microneedle Patch

Daewoong Therapeutics Breaks New Ground in Drug Delivery

Daewoong Therapeutics, a subsidiary of Daewoong Pharmaceutical, has reached a significant milestone in drug delivery technology with its newly developed microneedle patch featuring semaglutide. Achieving over 80% relative bioavailability compared to injectable forms, the patch is set to redefine how we approach obesity treatments. This breakthrough was announced during a recent pilot pharmacokinetic study that involved 70 healthy volunteers, who received either the innovative microneedle patch or a traditional subcutaneous injection.

The results of this study were impressive. The microneedle patch outperformed existing products by providing significantly higher bioavailability, surpassing the typical 30% observed in other microneedle patches—setting a new global standard in drug delivery. Additionally, it offered a bioavailability that was 160 times greater than semaglutide oral tablets, which have historically been less effective due to difficulties in absorption and strict dosing regimens.

A Game Changer in Obesity Treatment

The implications of this advancement are far-reaching, especially in the context of obesity treatment. With the global obesity therapeutics market anticipated to grow from $15.9 billion in 2024 to $60.5 billion by 2030, effective drug delivery systems have become critical. Current methods, including injections and oral formulations, have notable drawbacks—pain and complicated dosing schedules—leading many patients to avoid treatment altogether. However, the microneedle patch alleviates these concerns:

• - Pain-Free Administration: The patch eliminates the fear and discomfort associated with needles, making it a more appealing option for many patients.
• - Simplified Dosing: The potential for weekly dosing (as indicated by the study) means that patients could manage their treatment with minimal hassle, improving adherence.

How the Technology Works

The unparalleled success of this microneedle patch can be credited to Daewoong's proprietary CLOPAM® technology, which boasts a dissolving microneedle design. This innovative technology utilizes pressurized drying and hermetic packaging to enhance the uniformity and stability of the delivered drug. Moreover, unlike traditional injectable forms that require cold-chain storage, these patches can be stored at room temperature, reducing distribution costs and environmental waste from medical disposables.

Daewoong's commitment to sustainability is further reflected in the patch's design, which minimizes the medical waste typically generated by syringes and vials. This focus not only meets patient needs but also aligns with broader health and environmental goals.

Future Prospects

Daewoong Therapeutics is now looking to expand its horizons through collaborative initiatives that include technology licensing and co-development. As noted by CEO Bok-Ki Kang, “In this study, we incorporated a high dose of semaglutide into a single patch. This achievement not only meets therapeutic requirements but lays a solid foundation for global technology transfer and commercialization.”

CEO Seong-Soo Park emphasized the breakthrough aspect of this technology, stating, “This work is the first to overcome the barrier of high-dose delivery with microneedles…” highlighting the potential for this technology to extend beyond obesity treatments into other biologics.

In summary, Daewoong Therapeutics is pioneering the future of medication delivery with its new microneedle patch for obesity treatments. It promises to enhance patient experience, increase adherence, and minimize waste, thus positioning the company as a leader in the pharmaceutical landscape.

About Daewoong Pharmaceutical

Founded in 1945 and headquartered in South Korea, Daewoong Pharmaceutical is committed to developing innovative healthcare solutions. Focused on treating rare diseases, the firm continually invests in research and development, aiming to enhance global health outcomes. Recent accomplishments include new treatments for gastroesophageal reflux disease and type 2 diabetes, showcasing the company's dedication to improving lives through advanced medical solutions. Daewoong Therapeutics is positioned as an integral part of this mission by delivering cutting-edge drug delivery technologies.