Human albumin is a protein that plays a role in drug formulations as an excipient [1]. It is a key component in certain drug products, contributing to their stability and delivery [1].
What is the function of albumin in drug products?
Albumin serves multiple purposes when used as an excipient. It can help stabilize protein-based therapeutics, preventing them from aggregating or degrading during storage and administration [1]. In some cases, it can also facilitate the solubility of certain drug substances, improving their bioavailability [1]. For example, albumin-bound paclitaxel (Abraxane) utilizes albumin to deliver the chemotherapy drug paclitaxel to tumors [2].
What drugs use human albumin as an excipient?
Several therapeutic agents incorporate human albumin. Albumin-bound paclitaxel is a prominent example in oncology [2]. Other applications may exist in various therapeutic areas where protein stabilization or solubility enhancement is required.
Where does the human albumin used as an excipient come from?
The human albumin used in pharmaceutical products is typically derived from human plasma [3]. It undergoes rigorous purification processes to ensure safety and efficacy for medicinal use [3].
Are there alternatives to human albumin as an excipient?
Researchers are exploring alternative excipients that can provide similar stabilization or delivery benefits. These may include synthetic polymers, other types of proteins, or lipid-based formulations, depending on the specific drug and its intended application [1]. The development of non-animal derived components is also an area of focus to mitigate potential risks associated with plasma-derived materials [3].