Qualia Pharma in collaboration with the School of Chemical Engineering of National Technical University of Athens is developing a novel therapeutic approach for the management of osteoarthritis. The new approach uses local injectable nanosystems based on the encapsulation of natural therapeutic agents (natural products with confirmed anti-inflammatory and/or antioxidant activity) in various biocompatible and biodegradable, non-toxic matrices. The novel nanosystems ensure:

• Controlled release and high accumulation of the drug at the arthritic joint sites
• Potential topical intra-articular administration
• Lower dose requirements
• Improved safety profile
• Protection of the active ingredient from photo degradation, oxidation, humidity

The new “multifunctional” nanoparticles can simultaneously achieve different therapeutic effects (e.g. anti-inflammatory and antioxidant) as well as, controlled delivery and release of the active substance in the suffering area.