Exploring Microneedle Systems for Transdermal Drug Administration

Abstract

Introduction: Transdermal administration of medication is a preferred method for administering therapeutic medications. It is simple to administer and prevent drug deterioration in the gastrointestinal tract. However, the main obstacle to drug penetration is the stratum corneum. only tiny (<500 Da) and moderately hydrophobic molecules can be administered transdermally. Microneedle (MN) arrays offer a painless substitute to improve transdermal administration and skin permeability. Through the creation of microscopic holes, this technology has the potential to transport a wide range of therapeutic macromolecules to the dermal microcirculation over the skin's surface in a way that is least intrusive to the surface and epidermis. The medication compositions and microneedle design allow for the regulation of dosage, delivery rate, and drug efficacy. This review covers microneedle systems, materials, and manufacturing methods.

Methods: Microneedle arrays can be made in a variety of methods. The most popular methods are micro mouldings, laser ablation, chemical isotropic etching, injection moulding, additive manufacturing, surface/bulk micromachining, and lithography electroforming replication.

Conclusions: Research on the use of microneedles for transdermal medication administration has gained attention since this method of delivery potentially replaces current methods and improves patient accessibility to medications. Four categories exist for microneedles: hydrogel, solid, coated, and dissolving. Ceramics, silicon, metal, polymers, and glass are just a few of the materials used to make them. To impart diverse sizes, forms, and features, various production processes are employed. Clinical experiments using different medications are utilizing microneedles, which are still undergoing evolution.