Ketorolac tromethamine-loaded hydrogel-forming microneedles for pediatric pain relief

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Pediatric Pain Management

Background:

• Systemic administration of analgesics in children poses risks to growth and development.
• Developing specialized pediatric pain relief formulations is crucial for treatment compliance.
• Microneedle (MN) technology offers potential for transdermal drug delivery, minimizing systemic side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, prepare, and evaluate ketorolac tromethamine (KT)-loaded hydrogel-forming microneedles (KT-TMN) for pediatric pain management.
• To investigate the effect of microneedle tip geometry on mechanical strength and performance.
• To assess the analgesic efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetic profile of the developed KT-TMN system.

Main Methods:

• Methacrylic anhydride-modified hyaluronic acid was used as the matrix for hydrogel-forming microneedles.
• Microneedles with conical, tetrapyramidal, and candle-like tip geometries were fabricated and characterized.
• Mechanical properties, insertion capability, safety, drug release kinetics, analgesic efficacy (acetic acid-induced writhing and hot plate tests), and in vivo pharmacokinetics were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Candle-like microneedles (KT-TMN) demonstrated superior mechanical strength and insertion capability.
• KT-TMN exhibited significant analgesic efficacy in mice, comparable to intravenous ketorolac tromethamine.
• In vivo pharmacokinetic studies showed stable and sustained drug release, indicating effective transdermal delivery.

Conclusions:

• The developed KT-TMN system is a promising transdermal delivery platform for pediatric analgesia.
• This microneedle formulation offers a safer alternative to systemic drug administration, potentially improving pediatric pain management.
• Further research into KT-TMN for pediatric applications is warranted due to its efficacy and favorable pharmacokinetic profile.