When describing a pharmaceutical systems product, DURECT refers to a product that is defining a new industry at the convergence of the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical device industries. While the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, drug delivery and medical device industries have increased overall life expectancy and improved patient quality of life, many chronic debilitating diseases continue to be inadequately treated with current drugs or medical devices.

Because of its strong technological foundation and the unique pharmaceutical systems approach to delivering a drug in the right amount to the right place at the right time, DURECT is well positioned to capitalize on the advancements currently being made and address the challenging problems in the healthcare industry.

The Right Drug
Pharmaceutical systems can expand the therapeutic use of compounds that otherwise would be too potent, do not remain in the body long enough to be effective, or have significant side effects when administered systemically. This flexibility allows us to work with a variety of drug candidates including small molecules, proteins, peptides or genes.

The Right Site
Pharmaceutical systems draw on innovations in the medical device industry to enhance treatments. DURECT's ability to deliver precise, accurate and continuous doses of a drug, allows the company to extend the therapeutic value of a wide variety of drugs, including those which would otherwise be ineffective, too unstable, too potent or cause adverse side effects. Delivering the drug directly to the intended site of action can also improve efficacy while minimizing unwanted side effects elsewhere in the body, which often limit the long-term use of many drugs.

The Right Amount
DURECT's pharmaceutical systems provides a steady sustained release of drug that minimizes side effects by eliminating peaks and troughs associated with conventional drug dosing using pills, injections or patches. This can reduce side effects, lower the amount of drug administered and conveniently ensure accurate dosing and patient compliance.

The Right Time
DURECT's pharmaceutical systems can thus provide better therapy for chronic diseases or conditions by replacing multiple injection therapy or oral dosing, improving drug efficacy, reducing side effects and ensuring dosing compliance. DURECT's pharmaceutical systems can improve patients' quality of life by eliminating more repetitive treatments, reducing dependence on caregivers and allowing them to lead more independent lives.

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