Prodrugs or Proagents are the compounds which undergo biotransformation before showing desired pharmacological activity.
Prodrugs are generally the esters or amides of the parent drug.
The prodrugs are useful in improving the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of the parent drug, masking the unpleasant taste and odour of the parent drug, and reducing the drug toxicity.
Examples and Applications of Prodrugs
1. Chloramphenicol palmitate , the prodrug of chloramphenicol is used in the preparation of paediatric suspension because it has no bitter taste.
2. Procaine-penicillin G and Benzathine-penicillin G are prodrugs of Penicillin G which shows resistance to hydrolysis as compared to the parent drug.
3. Testosterone cypionate, the prodrug of testosterone is long acting in comparison to the parent drugs when injected in an oil base.
4. Clindamycin-2-Palmitate, the prodrug of Clindamycin has no bitter taste, as of the parent drug.
5. Clindamycin-2-phosphate, the prodrug of clindamycin causes less pain and irritation at the site of injection when given by i/m route as compared to its parent drug.
