Assessment of microneedles for transdermal drug delivery

Melissa Kirkby, Kurtis Moffatt, Aaron Hutton, Inken K. Ramöller, Peter McKenna, Marco Abbate, Sarah A. Stewart, Ryan Donnelly*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Microneedle (MN) arrays are a minimally invasive method of bypassing the stratum corneum barrier via piercing of the epidermis, creating reversible microscopic channels into the microcirculation. The concept of microneedle technology has developed significantly since its conception in 1976, and throughout this time has been used to enhance topical and transdermal drug delivery, deliver vaccines, detect endogenous markers for patient monitoring and diagnosis, and improve the appearance of skin through cosmeceutical delivery. Currently, five types of MNs exist, which can be fabricated from numerous materials to control and extend drug release where necessary. This chapter first defines MNs and discusses their fabrication techniques and materials. Second, the numerous applications of MNs are discussed, from enhancement of drug and vaccine delivery to improvement of skin appearance. The true potential of MNs as a drug delivery device for biopharmaceuticals will not only rely on acceptance from prescribers, patients, and the regulatory authorities but the ability to upscale MN manufacture in a cost-effective manner and the long-term safety of MN application. Thus, the current barriers to clinical translation of MNs and how these barriers may be overcome are also discussed.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPercutaneous absorption drugs, cosmetics, mechanisms, methods
EditorsNina Dragićević, Howard Maibach
Place of PublicationBoca Raton
PublisherCRC Press
Chapter39
Number of pages34
Edition5th
ISBN (Electronic)9780429202971
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 30 Jul 2021

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