Drug Delivery Technology

Q: What do you believe
are the major
shortcomings of
conventional patches?
Q: How is the Isis Patch
programmed?

A: It’s really been a one-size-fits-all approach, with no effective way to modulate how much or when a drug is released. Also, the size and type of drug molecule that will cross the skin barrier are limited. Adverse skin reactions to the adhesives have hurt the usability of many patches. These limitations can be addressed by iontophoresis, but the trouble has been that existing iontophoretic devices are way too bulky, uncomfortable, and difficult to use for most patients, even with training.

A: Following consultation with the patient, the doctor e-mails the prescription into the patient’s pharmacy (or the patch can be pre-programmed with profiled dosages). Each patch has a unique identification number for individualized tracking and follow-up. The pharmacist activates the patch and transfers the dosing information using the Isis hand-held control. The patient then applies the patch and has the option of returning it to the physician for compliance tracking.

Q: What is your go-to-
market strategy?
Q: What are the key
features and benefits of
the Isis Patch?

software interface and wireless controller are where our approach really stands out, and there are many features designed to give physicians control. A patch can hold up to three different drugs for up to 7 days of dosing. Each can be delivered at a predetermined rate, over a time period that may be programmed into the patch and subsequently retrieved to the patient’s record. There are also many ease-of-use features, such as pulse dose delivery and nocturnal shut-off, which make delivery of desired dosage more reliable. Our team’s background in PTF flexible circuits has led to several innovations over traditional rigid and flexible copper circuits, like our environmentally friendly manufacturing process. It can reduce the cost of conventional iontophoresis by as much as 50%.

A: To begin with, the design is different. It’s quite thin, 0.002 of an inch thick and made of soft and pliable polyester substrate, as opposed to the thick, plastic-covered patches we’ve had. It’s small, soft, and very pliable. The polymers are skin friendly and adhere better without causing irritation. In addition, our hydrogels are unique and proprietary to Isis. They allow us to use more diverse drugs than are currently available. The

Q: So will this lead to
improved compliance?

A: Yes, because it’s a painless alternative to injection that is convenient, easy to wear, and multi-day. Physicians tell us they like the ability to remotely control activation of the patch and monitor use as well as adjust drug delivery. This software-driven system helps them avoid under-and overdosing as well as misuse.

A: We are currently working with one of the largest pharmacy chains in North America on the doctor/pharmacy interface. Our plans are to license the technology to Pharma. Engagement has already begun with three major players in this space. Additionally, Isis is developing three drug therapies for diabetes, ADHD, and movement disorders. Our strategy has been to focus on sizeable market opportunities in which we can show clear advantage to both patient and physician in a way that is just not