Factors influencing the bioavailability of peroral formulations of drugs for dogs.

The oral route is presently the preferred route of drug delivery. Poor oral bioavailability results in variable concentrations of drugs in the plasma and variable pharmacological responses, in addition to higher product costs. The unique canine physiology, anatomy and biochemistry makes designing canine dosage forms a challenging exercise. This article reviews the physicochemical, physiological, pharmacokinetic, pharmacological and formulation factors that can influence the drug availability of the oral formulations in dogs in an effort to provide a source of data to aid development of canine drug products with superior bioavailability.