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BOTOX delivery by iontophoresis
1University Department of Dermatology, The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Lauriston Building, Edinburgh EH3 9YW, Scotland, UK. gina.kavanagh@luht.scot.nhs.uk
The British Journal of Dermatology
|November 16, 2004
Summary
Botulinum toxin (BOTOX) can be effectively delivered via iontophoresis, not just injection, for treating severe palmar hyperhidrosis. This novel method offers a less invasive alternative for patients suffering from excessive sweating.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Neurology
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- Severe palmar hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating of the palms.
- Current treatments often involve injections or surgery, which can be invasive and painful.
- Botulinum toxin (BOTOX) is a potential treatment, but its large molecular size was thought to preclude non-invasive delivery methods like iontophoresis.
Observation:
- Two patients with severe palmar hyperhidrosis were treated using iontophoresis with BOTOX.
- A small iontophoresis unit (Iomed Phoresor II) was utilized with standard BOTOX dilutions.
- Saline was used as a control in the treatment protocol.
Findings:
- Both patients responded positively to BOTOX delivered via iontophoresis.
- The study demonstrates that BOTOX, despite its molecular size, can be successfully delivered through the skin using iontophoresis.
- This method allowed for the use of small volumes of BOTOX, indicating efficient transdermal delivery.
Implications:
- Iontophoresis offers a potentially less painful and non-invasive alternative to injections for BOTOX delivery in hyperhidrosis.
- This approach could significantly benefit the large patient population suffering from focal hyperhidrosis.
- Successful iontophoretic delivery of BOTOX may reduce the need for more invasive surgical interventions in severe cases.