A major transformation is taking place as injectable therapies expand beyond traditional clinical settings into home care and self-administration. High-viscosity and large-volume subcutaneous formulations are now delivered through advanced delivery technologies such as wearable on-body injectors, prefilled syringes, pens, and autoinjectors. These systems allow patients to administer complex therapies safely and comfortably, while helping pharmaceutical companies extend product lifecycles and strengthen treatment adherence. At the same time, needle-free delivery routes are gaining traction. Inhaled biologics, oral biologic formulations, and mucosal delivery methods are creating new possibilities for non-invasive administration, addressing long-standing challenges associated with injections.
Investment in drug delivery technologies is accelerating globally, driven by the need to support next-generation therapeutics and more patient-focused care pathways. Delivery devices are advancing into integrated systems that combine precise dosing, reliability, and user-centred design. In respiratory drug delivery, platforms are shifting to new propellant technologies with lower environmental impacts, while smart inhalers and connected dose-tracking solutions help healthcare providers monitor adherence and optimise treatment outcomes. These developments are especially important in chronic respiratory diseases, where correct usage and consistency directly affect clinical effectiveness.
Beyond injectables and inhalation, innovations across specialised delivery systems continue to expand. Transdermal and microneedle technologies enable painless, controlled delivery of both small molecules and biologics. Implantable pumps and long-acting delivery systems are now developed to reduce dosing frequency and enhance the quality of life for patients with chronic conditions. Ocular delivery devices address the complexities of delivering drugs to the eye with greater precision and sustained release. Closed-loop delivery systems, including feedback-controlled insulin delivery for diabetes management, demonstrate how integrated devices can transform disease management while easing the patient burden.
From a stakeholder perspective, these developments present both opportunities and challenges. Pharmaceutical companies must align drug formulation strategies with compatible delivery platforms early in development to prevent costly delays and secure regulatory success. Device manufacturers face rising expectations around usability, reliability, and scalability, as well as compliance with evolving global regulatory standards. Healthcare providers are adjusting to new care models that shift treatment responsibility towards patients, while maintaining safety, training, and monitoring. Investors and strategic partners recognise that differentiation in drug delivery can be just as decisive as the therapeutic molecule itself.
