Methods used to assess pulmonary deposition and absorption of drugs

The assessment of pulmonary drug absorption and deposition is becoming increasingly important in drug development. Absorption information can be used to maximize pulmonary selectivity, to screen drug candidates and to help evaluate the bioequivalence of generic inhalation products. Several methods are available to investigate pulmonary drug absorption and deposition, ranging from in vitro experiments to in vivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analyses. In combination, these methods can indicate the fate of an inhaled drug.