See the DrugPatentWatch profile for albumin

Albumin-bound paclitaxel, also known as nab-paclitaxel, differs from traditional paclitaxel formulations in the way it is delivered to cancer cells. Traditional paclitaxel is formulated in a solvent, cremophor EL, which can cause hypersensitivity reactions and limitations in dosage [1]. On the other hand, albumin-bound paclitaxel is bound to human albumin, a natural protein, and does not require the use of solvents [2].

One of the main advantages of albumin-bound paclitaxel is its improved solubility and delivery to tumors. The albumin-binding allows the drug to selectively accumulate in tumors due to the higher concentration of albumin in tumor tissues [3]. This targeted delivery can lead to improved efficacy and reduced side effects compared to traditional paclitaxel.

Several studies have compared the efficacy and safety of albumin-bound paclitaxel and traditional paclitaxel in various types of cancer. For example, a phase III trial in patients with metastatic breast cancer found that albumin-bound paclitaxel had a higher response rate and longer time to progression compared to traditional paclitaxel [4]. Another study in patients with non-small cell lung cancer found that albumin-bound paclitaxel had similar efficacy but a better safety profile compared to traditional paclitaxel [5].

In terms of cost, albumin-bound paclitaxel is generally more expensive than traditional paclitaxel due to its patented formulation. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent for albumin-bound paclitaxel (brand name Abraxane) expired in 2016, which may lead to the introduction of generic versions and a potential decrease in cost [6].

In conclusion, albumin-bound paclitaxel offers several advantages over traditional paclitaxel formulations, including improved solubility, targeted delivery, and potentially improved efficacy and safety. However, these benefits come at a higher cost, which may be a consideration for patients and healthcare providers.

Sources:

1. "Paclitaxel." National Cancer Institute, 15 Jan. 2021, [www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/paclitaxel](http://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/paclitaxel).
2. "Abraxane." Abraxane, [www.abraxane.com](http://www.abraxane.com).
3. Desai, Nirav, et al. "Nanoparticle albumin-bound (nab) paclitaxel: a novel formulation of paclitaxel." Cancer management and research, vol. 5, 2013, pp. 197-205, [doi:10.2147/CMAR.S39312](doi:10.2147/CMAR.S39312).
4. Gradishar, W. J., et al. "Phase III trial of nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel compared with polyethylated castor oil-based paclitaxel in women with breast cancer." Journal of clinical oncology, vol. 27, no. 33, 2009, pp. 5570-5577, [doi:10.1200/JCO.2009.22.0135](doi:10.1200/JCO.2009.22.0135).
5. Socinski, Mark A., et al. "Weekly nab-paclitaxel is active and well tolerated in patients with previously untreated advanced non-small cell lung cancer." Journal of thoracic oncology, vol. 6, no. 12, 2011, pp. 2023-2029, [doi:10.1097/JTO.0b013e318236c23a](doi:10.1200/JCO.2009.22.0135).
6. "Abraxane (Paclitaxel Protein-Bound Particles for Injectable Suspension) Patent Expiration." DrugPatentWatch, [www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/abraxane](http://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/abraxane).