How are biopharmaceuticals different from traditional small molecule drugs?

Composition:

1. • Biopharmaceuticals: Typically large, complex molecules, such as proteins, peptides, or nucleic acids. Examples include monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, and gene therapies.
   • Small Molecule Drugs: Generally low molecular weight compounds (less than 900 Daltons) that are chemically synthesized. Examples include aspirin and statins.

2. Production:

   • Biopharmaceuticals: Produced using living organisms, such as bacteria, yeast, or mammalian cells, through recombinant DNA technology. The production process involves cell cultures and bioreactors.
   • Small Molecule Drugs: Synthesized through chemical reactions in a lab, often using a series of steps to build the molecule from simpler precursors.

3. Mechanism of Action:

   • Biopharmaceuticals: Often target specific proteins or cells in the body. They can be designed to mimic or modify biological processes, such as antibodies targeting cancer cells or hormones regulating metabolic processes.
   • Small Molecule Drugs: Typically work by interacting with specific enzymes or receptors to alter biological pathways. They might inhibit or activate certain proteins or enzymes to achieve their effect.

4. Administration and Stability:

   • Biopharmaceuticals: Often administered via injection because they are usually too large or unstable to be taken orally. They generally require strict storage conditions.
   • Small Molecule Drugs: Can often be administered orally in pill form and are usually more stable and easier to store.

Overall, biopharmaceuticals are used for diseases that require targeting specific biological processes or proteins, while small molecule drugs are used for a broad range of conditions and often offer more convenient administration options.