The tiny, biodegradable gel sits under the skin and releases steady doses of two key medicines all week long, aiming for steadier symptom control, fewer side effects, and a much simpler routine. Early lab tests look safe and effective, and the team hopes to move into human trials soon.
Weekly Injectable Breakthrough for Parkinson’s
A once-a-week injection could greatly ease life for the more than eight million people who live with Parkinson’s disease by replacing the daily routine of swallowing multiple pills.
Researchers at the University of South Australia (UniSA) have designed a long-acting shot that supplies a steady, seven-day dose of levodopa and carbidopa, the two main medicines used to control Parkinson’s symptoms.
Details of their work appear in the journal Drug Delivery and Translational Research.
Biodegradable Delivery System Cuts Pill Burden
The formulation, made from biodegradable materials, is injected just under the skin or into muscle. It then releases the medication gradually for an entire week.
Parkinson’s disease is the world’s second most common neurological condition, affecting more than 8.5 million people. Although no cure exists, tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement can be managed with oral drugs that often have to be taken several times a day.
This frequent dosing can be hard on patients, especially older adults or anyone who has trouble swallowing tablets. Irregular timing of doses causes uneven drug levels, extra side effects, and less dependable relief.
