Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling is a core element of the early drug and formulation development workflow, enabling data-driven decisions that accelerate timelines and de-risk programs. Integrated with developability assessments, it supports technology selection, route-of-delivery evaluation, and absorption optimization from lead nomination through Phase I. Using compound-specific physicochemical and ADME inputs, PBPK models characterize a drug behavior in the body after dosing and predict interspecies differences, human exposure, and the impact of alternative formulations. With limited preclinical data, structure-based estimates can be used to prioritize candidates and frame uncertainty.

This approach identifies key liabilities, such as solubility limits, permeability constraints, and presystemic clearance, and links them to actionable formulation strategies, including lipid-based systems, amorphous solid dispersions, and modified-release designs. Case examples will show how PBPK, combined with biorelevant solubility, permeability, and clearance measurements, informs route selection, guides enabling-technology use, and simulates human pharmacokinetics to align candidates with the target product profile.

By uniting PBPK with developability data, we enable phase-appropriate decisions that reduce risk, focus in vivo studies, and connect early clinical strategy with long-term program goals. In practice, PBPK provides a quantitative framework to triage prototypes, set bioperformance specifications, and minimize empirical iteration, thereby streamlining formulation development.

Presenter:
Maksim Khotimchenko, Ph.D.
Principal Scientist, DMPK Scientific Advisory
Catalent Pharma Solutions

Moderator:
Arlene Padron
Senior Director, Business Development