New Transdermal Technologies and Analysis of Perspectives Shift of Transdermal Drug Delivery from Patch to Microneedles
摘要
Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems (TDDS) have evolved significantly for both local and systemic drug administration from passive patches to Microneedles (MNs) to overcome the barrier of the stratum corneum. This transition enables the delivery of mRNA, siRNA, and macromolecules, overcoming the limitations of traditional patches. These systems provide controlled drug release, improved bioavailability, enhanced patient compliance, avoidance of first-pass metabolism, reduced side effects, and improved therapeutic outcomes. TDDS includes patches, MNs, and advanced formulations such as transferosomes, hydrogel, exosomes, and nanofibers. Traditional patches, while convenient, are limited by the skin’s formidable barrier, the stratum corneum. Regulatory agencies, including the USFDA, have guided the development and evaluation of these systems, underscoring their growing importance in modern medicine. This shift also triggers stringent regulatory requirements to assess the safety of the product and demands more real-life study data than actual animal studies. The evolution of MNs will replace the subcutaneous injections to some extent. This review highlights the current developments, challenges, and future perspectives of TDDS, focusing on innovative technologies such as MNs, ion-pair systems, transferosomes, nanofibers, and exosomes, which are revolutionizing transdermal drug delivery.