The use of nanomedicines in the healthcare systems: a policy brief

Abstract

Objective: Nanomedicine is the application of nanotechnology to medicine and, therefore, a potentially transformative approach to healthcare. This new and interdisciplinary field has three main applications in diagnostics, controlled/targeted drug delivery, and regenerative medicine. Nanomedicine has great potential to change human health by advancing diagnosis, prevention and treatment for a wide variety of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and neurological disorders. Despite the overwhelming potential, there are some issues impeding the complete integration of nanomedicines into healthcare systems.

Significance: This policy brief addresses such critical issues to inform and guide decision-making on effectively deploying nanomedicine to improve patient outcomes and advance important public health initiatives. In addition, some prospects were also presented for the future. It discusses the current barriers to their wide application, particularly regarding regulatory hurdles and the production of robust clinical evidence.

Key findings: These brand-new nanosystems have some serious drawbacks in regard to safety, efficacy, and regulatory compliance, not to mention public acceptance. Nanomaterials can be so complex that their manufacturing processes become complex, which may potentially bring into question long-term effects on human health and the environment.

Conclusions: This policy brief identifies key considerations for policymakers and stakeholders, highlighting the requirement for integration among researchers, clinicians, and regulatory bodies. To facilitate the safe and successful integration of nanomedicines into patient care, continued collaboration are imperative. Priority in the future should be given to developing comprehensive regulatory frameworks, raising public awareness, and promoting interdisciplinary research to resolve existing challenges and unlock the potential of nanomedicines in the healthcare sector.

Keywords: Multimodality; healthcare systems; nanomedicines; policy brief.