Sniffing Out Solutions In The Nasal Drug Delivery Revolution

By Richard Johnson, Founder and Chief Scientific Officer, Upperton Pharma Solutions

Once limited to niche therapeutic applications such as allergic rhinitis, nasal drug delivery has rapidly evolved into a versatile and promising route for both systemic and central nervous system (CNS) drug administration. Its ability to enable rapid absorption through the nasal epithelium makes it particularly attractive for treatments requiring fast onset — such as pain management, hypoglycemia, or seizure control — while offering patients the convenience of needle-free, self-administered dosing.

Beyond systemic delivery, recent advances in understanding the unique physiology of the olfactory region have sparked significant interest in nose-to-brain drug transport. This route bypasses the blood–brain barrier (BBB), leveraging the direct anatomical and physiological connections between the nasal cavity and the CNS via the olfactory and trigeminal pathways. Such insights are redefining nasal delivery as a strategic platform for targeting neurological diseases and other brain-related disorders.

However, the promise of nasal administration is tempered by significant scientific and technical challenges. The nasal cavity’s complex anatomy, protective physiology, and rapid mucociliary clearance can all hinder drug deposition and absorption. From a formulation standpoint, developers must overcome constraints related to limited dose volume, drug loading, and regional targeting within the nasal passage. Achieving consistent, efficient delivery to the upper nasal regions where brain uptake occurs demands precise device engineering and finely tuned formulation design.

As research continues to advance, nasal drug delivery stands at the intersection of innovation and practicality — offering a unique opportunity to expand therapeutic reach while rethinking how medicines are administered and experienced.