sensingdrugdelivery

Sensing drug delivery is the use of sensors and sensing technologies to monitor the release, distribution, and action of therapeutic agents. It encompasses measurement of drug concentration in biological fluids, detection of release rates from delivery systems, and assessment of pharmacodynamic responses to support accurate dosing and feedback control in medical treatments.

Technologies include implantable and wearable sensors, ingestible smart pills, and microfabricated drug delivery devices. Electrochemical and optical sensors can quantify drug levels; MEMS-based pumps and reservoirs can adjust release in response to sensor readouts; wireless telemetry and RFID enable data transmission. Imaging modalities such as PET or MRI are sometimes used to assess distribution, while biosensors can track related biomarkers to infer drug effect.

Applications span insulin delivery with closed-loop systems, chemotherapy with controlled release platforms, and antimicrobial therapy, among others. In research, sensing drug delivery supports pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies, optimization of dosing regimens, and the development of personalized medicine through feedback control.

Challenges include biocompatibility, sensor stability, calibration, lag between measurement and effect, data interpretation, and regulatory considerations. Privacy and cybersecurity risks may arise with wireless data. Cost and manufacturing complexity can hinder translation to clinical practice.

Future directions involve integration with artificial intelligence for adaptive dosing, energy harvesting to extend sensor life, and standardized interfaces to enable cross-device interoperability. Advances aim to deliver safer, more effective therapies through real-time monitoring of drug delivery.