In memoriam: Dr. Anwar A. Hussain Professor emeritus and visionary scientist

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 7, 2025) — The University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy mourns the passing of Anwar A. Hussain, Ph.D., professor emeritus, fellow of the Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences and one of the most influential scientists in the history of the University of Kentucky. Hussain passed away on Nov. 5, 2025, after a lifetime devoted to advancing the science of drug delivery and improving patient care.

A Life of Innovation and Discovery

After joining the University of Kentucky faculty in 1973, Hussain served as professor and director of the Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Analysis, holding a joint appointment in Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy. Over nearly three decades, until his retirement in 2000, he built one of the most productive and respected pharmaceutical research programs in the nation.

His pioneering work in dosage form design and intranasal drug delivery systems revolutionized modern pharmaceutics. He was among the first to demonstrate how modifying the structure of a drug molecule could improve its safety, stability and effectiveness. That insight reshaped how researchers design drugs and led to the development of safer, more efficient delivery routes for patients of all ages.

In 1992, Hussain patented Stadol, an intranasal spray for migraine relief, later marketed by Bristol-Myers. The therapy provided a breakthrough alternative for patients who could not tolerate oral medications and became one of the most successful examples of university research translated into commercial treatment. His more than 50 patents have generated upwards of $14 million in licensing revenue for the University of Kentucky, positioning the College of Pharmacy as a national leader in innovation and technology transfer.

“Dr. Anwar Hussain was not only one of the great scientific minds of our history, he was one of the reasons the University of Kentucky became known worldwide for pharmaceutical innovation,” said Craig Martin, PharmD, interim dean of the UK College of Pharmacy. “His legacy is woven into every discovery that has followed in the field of dosage form design. He inspired generations of scientists to see the interface between chemistry and compassion to create medicines that truly serve people.”

Groundbreaking Contributions

Hussain’s research extended well beyond Stadol. His studies in prodrug chemistry and nasal absorption technologies led to the development of new approaches for delivering hormones, beta blockers and peptides, many of which informed later advancements in non-invasive therapeutic design.

His work led to patents for nasal contraceptives, improved forms of aspirin and epinephrine and rapid-onset drug formulations that prefigured modern intranasal therapeutics. His innovations were commercialized through companies such as Alza Corporation, Bristol-Myers, Pfizer and Astec, among others.

Mentorship and Global Influence

Beyond the laboratory, Hussain was a patient and inspiring mentor. He supervised more than 20 graduates of the pharmaceutical sciences doctoral program, many of whom have gone on to lead universities, research institutes and pharmaceutical corporations around the world. His former students now serve as academic administrators, vice presidents and scientific directors in the United States, the Middle East, Europe and Asia.

“Dr. Hussain made a profound and enduring impact on both my professional development and the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy,” said Abbey Meredith, PharmD. “His leadership, integrity and dedication to excellence established a legacy that continues to guide and inspire all who had the privilege of learning from him.”

Throughout his career, Hussain delivered over 100 invited lectures internationally, including in Germany, England, Japan, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. He was recognized with numerous awards, including the University of Kentucky Research Foundation Award (1980) and election as a fellow of the Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences (1981). 

Hussain’s leadership helped define an era of extraordinary research achievement at the UK College of Pharmacy. His vision laid the foundation for the college’s continued excellence in pharmaceutical sciences, inspiring a generation of innovators.

After retirement, Hussain remained committed to advancing scientific discovery. He co-founded New Millennium Pharmaceutical Research, Inc., a Lexington-based biotechnology company focused on translating new delivery technologies into clinical applications.

An Enduring Legacy

Hussain’s lifetime of discovery transformed the science of pharmaceutics. His work made possible new therapies for pain, hormone balance, cardiovascular disease and other conditions, innovations that continue to improve patient care worldwide.

He will be remembered as a visionary scientist, a devoted father, mentor and colleague whose integrity and imagination elevated everyone around him. His legacy endures in his family, his students and the thousands of patients whose lives have been improved because of his work.

He is survived by his children: his eldest son, Sabah Hussain; his eldest daughter, Amal Bernal; his daughter, Sarab Stuart; his son, Layth Hussain; and his daughter, Amera Hussain; as well as 17 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His family remembers him as a man of quiet brilliance, humility and deep devotion to science, to his students and to the idea that medicine should serve humanity first.

Funeral and Celebration of Life

A funeral service will be held at noon Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at the Muslim Cemetery of Central Kentucky (3427 Georgetown Road, Lexington, KY 40511).

All friends, colleagues and members of the community are welcome to attend. The service will be conducted in accordance with Islamic tradition, and attendees are requested to observe the cultural customs of the ceremony.

Women are kindly asked to wear a head covering or scarf. Those who do not practice the Muslim faith may be invited to observe parts of the service from a designated area. 

Because Hussain’s former students and family members are located worldwide, the college will plan a virtual celebration of his life and scientific legacy in the coming weeks.

Following the funeral, the family will host an open house at 110 Stoneybrook Drive, Richmond, KY 40475, where condolences may be sent.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Brain Foundation: https://www.americanbrainfoundation.org/?form=Donate