The nanoscale in pulmonary delivery. Part 1: deposition, fate, toxicology and effects.

This two-part review explores the nanoscale in inhalation delivery. The first part covers the deposition, fate, toxicity and effects of nanoparticles delivered via inhalation. The second part analyses the potential of major inhalation delivery routes. Efficient particle deposition in the lung can be achieved with nanoparticles (50 - 100 nm). However, this particle range has hardly been exploited in a medical setting. Thus, formulation scientists have a rare opportunity to develop new concepts in inhalation delivery. The delivery of nanoparticles raises concern over increased toxicity, but also opens up the possibility for enhanced therapeutic effects and reduced dosage. Toxicity data available so far concerns mainly non-therapeutic molecules, and it remains a moot point as to whether these apply to drug molecules.