Twenty Clinically Pertinent Factors/Observations for Percutaneous Absorption in Humans

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Dermatology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Percutaneous absorption is a key route for drug and chemical delivery.
• Numerous factors influence the rate and extent of skin penetration.
• A comprehensive understanding is vital for efficacy and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and categorize the clinically relevant factors affecting percutaneous absorption.
• To provide a holistic overview of variables influencing drug penetration through the skin.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of established knowledge on percutaneous absorption.
• Categorization of influencing factors into physico-chemical, biological, and exposure-related parameters.

Main Results:

• Identified over 20 distinct factors impacting percutaneous absorption.
• These factors encompass drug properties, formulation, skin characteristics, exposure conditions, and biological variability.
• Key pathways include stratum corneum and skin appendages.

Conclusions:

• Percutaneous absorption is a complex process influenced by a multitude of interacting factors.
• Optimizing drug delivery requires careful consideration of all identified variables.
• Further research can refine our understanding of these complex interactions.