Microneedles: an emerging transdermal drug delivery system
Shital H Bariya1, Mukesh C Gohel, Tejal A Mehta
1Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. shital_26@yahoo.com
The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
|December 14, 2011
Summary
Microneedles offer a promising transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) for macromolecules. This review highlights advances in microneedle technology for enhanced drug delivery, bypassing conventional limitations.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Dermatology
Background:
- Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS) offer advantages over oral and parenteral routes.
- The stratum corneum presents a significant barrier to transdermal drug permeation.
- Microneedles enable drug delivery into the epidermis without nerve disruption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in microneedle technology for drug delivery.
- To provide insights for young scientists and encourage research in microneedle-based TDDS.
- To highlight the potential of microneedles for delivering challenging molecules.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of microneedles using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) with materials like silicon, metals, polymers, and polysaccharides.
- Development of solid-coated, dissolvable/degradable, and hollow microneedles.
- Integration of microneedles with techniques such as iontophoresis, sonophoresis, and electrophoresis for enhanced delivery.
Main Results:
- Microneedles facilitate effective delivery of macromolecules including insulin, growth hormones, proteins, and peptides.
- Advanced microneedle designs allow for higher drug doses and controlled release kinetics.
- Cosmeceutical applications of microneedles are available for treating skin conditions and improving skin tone.
Conclusions:
- Microneedle-based drug delivery systems are a viable alternative for macromolecules poorly delivered by conventional transdermal methods.
- Further exploration and patent filings indicate significant potential for microneedle technology in drug delivery.
- This technology offers a novel approach to overcome limitations in transdermal drug delivery.
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