Related Experiment Videos
Transdermal delivery of theophylline to premature infants using a hydrogel disc system
R G Cartwright1, P H Cartlidge, N Rutter
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nottingham.
Insights
Transdermal theophylline delivery via hydrogel discs is effective in preterm infants, achieving therapeutic serum concentrations for up to 15 days. This method shows potential for treating neonates with immature skin barrier function.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal pharmacology
- Dermatology
- Drug delivery systems
Background:
- Preterm infants possess underdeveloped skin with compromised barrier function.
- Transdermal drug administration offers a potential alternative for neonatal therapeutics.
- Hydrogel discs containing choline theophyllinate were explored for delivering theophylline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of transdermal theophylline delivery in preterm infants.
- To assess the achievement and maintenance of therapeutic serum theophylline concentrations.
- To explore correlations between drug absorption and infant characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Hydrogel discs (2 cm²) loaded with choline theophyllinate were applied to the abdomen and occluded.
- Serum theophylline concentrations were monitored in 21 preterm infants (<31 weeks gestation).
- Transepidermal water loss, gestation, and birthweight were recorded.
Main Results:
- Therapeutic theophylline concentrations were achieved in 18 out of 21 infants.
- Sustained therapeutic levels were maintained for up to 15 days with repeated disc application.
- A correlation was observed between peak serum drug levels and transepidermal water loss, gestation, and birthweight.
Conclusions:
- Transdermal delivery of theophylline using hydrogel discs is a viable option for preterm infants.
- This method can achieve and maintain therapeutic drug concentrations, despite immature skin barrier.
- Infant characteristics influence theophylline absorption, suggesting potential for personalized dosing.
Abstract:
1. Preterm infants show incompletely developed skin with reduced barrier function. The possibility of transdermal delivery of theophylline from hydrogel discs swollen with choline theophyllinate has been investigated. 2. Drug loaded hydrogel discs 2 cm2 in area were applied to the abdomen and occluded. Serum theophylline concentrations were measured in twenty-one infants of less than 31 weeks gestation. 3. Therapeutic concentrations were achieved in 18 individuals, and maintained for up to 15 days after repeated application of discs. A correlation between maximum serum drug concentration and transepidermal water loss, gestation and birthweight was demonstrated.