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Fabrication and characterization of voriconazole-loaded dissolving microneedle systems: a synergistic approach

Oliwia Kordyl1, Antoni Białek2, Jolanta Długaszewska3

  • 13D Printing Division, Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, 3 Rokietnicka Street, 60-806 Poznań, Poland.

International Journal of Pharmaceutics
|April 12, 2026
PubMed

Insights

New dissolving microneedle systems effectively deliver voriconazole (VRC) for deep fungal skin infections. These systems show enhanced skin deposition and potent antifungal activity, offering a promising topical treatment alternative.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Biomaterials Engineering
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Deep fungal skin infections pose treatment challenges due to poor topical penetration and systemic side effects of oral antifungals.
  • Developing effective localized drug delivery systems is crucial for improving therapeutic outcomes and patient compliance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and characterize voriconazole (VRC)-loaded dissolving microneedle (DMN) systems for enhanced topical delivery.
  • To evaluate the physicochemical properties, drug release kinetics, skin deposition, and antifungal efficacy of the VRC-loaded DMN systems.

Main Methods:

  • An integrated manufacturing approach combining 3D printing, PDMS molding, and vacuum compression molding (VCM) was used to fabricate Soluplus®-based DMNs.
  • Physicochemical stability, needle insertion capability, drug release profiles, ex vivo skin deposition, and in vitro antifungal activity were assessed.
  • Microtox® screening was performed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the DMN systems.

Main Results:

  • Fabricated DMN systems replicated master geometry, enabled effective skin insertion, and showed complete needle dissolution within 12.5 minutes.
  • Rapid VRC release from the needle compartment (30-45 min) followed by sustained release from the base was observed.
  • Significantly higher epidermal VRC deposition was achieved with DMN systems compared to suspension gel, with no transdermal permeation. Antifungal activity against Candida albicans, including a resistant strain, was confirmed. Low cytotoxicity was indicated by Microtox® screening.

Conclusions:

  • Soluplus®-based DMN systems offer a promising platform for localized voriconazole delivery to treat deep fungal skin infections.
  • The DMN approach enhances drug deposition in the epidermis, potentially improving treatment efficacy and reducing systemic exposure.
  • Further investigation into the clinical efficacy of these DMN systems for fungal skin infections is warranted.
Keywords:
2-propanol3D printingAcetonitrileCarbopol® EZ-3 (Crosslinked poly(acrylic acid))Dissolving microneedle systemsEthanolFungal skin infectionsGlycerolPoly(dimethylsiloxane)Soluplus® (Polyethylene glycol, Polyvinyl caprolactam, Polyvinyl acetate)TriisopropanolamineVacuum compression moldingVoriconazoleWater

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