Question

Discuss how to make orally active protein pharmaceutical. What is the major problem to be encountered?

Answer 1

Hint: Certain biologically active materials including antibodies, proteins or peptides and polymeric beads are present in the active protein pharmaceuticals which are taken orally. These pharmaceuticals are administered orally using several formulations into the body.

Complete answer:
Specific biologically active materials like protein or peptide, polymeric beads, and antibodies are included in the orally active protein pharmaceutical. The peptide or proteins present in them is useful for the treatment of different diseases. It can also be used as an injection or vaccines. These active protein pharmaceuticals are administered orally in the body with the help of different formulations. The peptides or proteins are encapsulated in different formulations or liposomes with the help of penetration enhancers.
> Taking orally active protein pharmaceutical, one of the major problems encountered include:
During the digestion of protein, the protease enzyme in the stomach juice denatures the protein and nullifies the effect of the protein. Therefore, if the therapeutic protein is taken orally then it is essential for protecting it from the digestive enzymes. It is because of the protease enzymes this therapeutically active protein, has to be directly injected to the target site and avoid the oral consumption.
> The process of making orally active protein pharmaceutical include:
i. A tablet is made by putting the protein in it as well as the coating of the tablet must be a form of a material which is resistant to acidic environment i.e. it should not get digested in the acidic medium of the stomach. The tablet should dissolve in the body’s intestine. Hence, Absorption of protein takes place via villi on the intestine.
ii. This way the therapeutic protein will dissolve easily into the intestine with the help of covering after passing through the stomach.

Note:
Even after the poor bioavailability of the oral active protein pharmaceutical the oral route is still preferred over the vaccines because of its long-term compliance and high level of patient acceptance which increases the drug's therapeutic value.