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Small Molecule Vs Biologic

Meaning

Small molecule versus biologic refers to a fundamental classification distinction in pharmacology, differentiating therapeutic agents based on their size, chemical structure, and method of production. Small molecules are low molecular weight, chemically synthesized compounds, typically less than 900 Daltons, which are often able to penetrate cell membranes to act on intracellular targets. Biologics, conversely, are large, complex molecules, such as peptides, proteins, antibodies, or hormones, derived from living systems and often targeting extracellular receptors or signaling molecules. This distinction is critical in hormonal health, as many traditional hormone therapies are small molecules, while newer peptide and protein therapies are classified as biologics, impacting their stability, route of administration, and immunogenicity.