Circadian rhythms regulate most body functions and are important factors to consider when administering drugs. The existence of circadian rhythms in nature and their influences on human biological systems have given rise to the concept of chronotherapy, which is the science of delivering drugs in a synchronized manner with the rhythm-dependent circadian variation inherent in the human body. Clock genes are the genes that control the circadian rhythms in physiology and behavior. 24h rhythm is demonstrated for the function of physiology and the pathophysiology of diseases. Chronotherapy is especially relevant, when the risk and/or intensity of the symptoms of disease vary predictably over time as exemplified by allergic rhinitis, arthritis, asthma, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, stroke, and peptic ulcer disease. Pharmaceutical invention and research are increasingly focusing on delivery systems which enhance desirable therapeutic objectives while minimizing side effects. From the point of view of pharmaceutics, the application of a biological rhythm to pharmacotherapy may be accomplished by the appropriate timing of conventionally formulated tablets and capsules, and a special drug delivery system, to synchronize the drug concentrations with the rhythms in the disease activity.
Loading....