Iontophoretic skin delivery systems: Success and failures

Iontophoretic transdermal delivery uses a small electric current to push charged molecules into the skin under an electrode of same polarity and offers an attractive option to facilitate the delivery of macromolecules or hydrophilic molecules and to improve patient compliance. This technique has been used in physical therapy clinics for several decades, though the science was not always there to support claims of clinical effectiveness. Recently, this modality of treatment has undergone more systematic and rigorous investigations to withstand the scrutiny of regulatory authorities. In recent years various drugs have gained FDA approval for iontophoretic patches. This technique is gaining recognition due to better compliance rates, non-invasive drug delivery leading to fewer side effects, and sustained release of the drug. Furthermore, programmed delivery and bolus delivery systems have helped with customizing the drug dosage and frequency of dosage based on the patient's need.