(Amherst NH) – Growth of transdermal delivery has been restricted by the need to limit candidate drugs to molecules small enough to passively migrate through the stratum corneum, a limitation that excludes passive transdermal patches as a viable option for the growing number of therapeutic compounds that will represent an increasing share of future NCEs. To expand the limits of transdermal drug delivery, developers are employing electrical current to develop iontophoresis drug delivery devices to affect active transport through the skin. This technique can increase the upper molecular size limit dramatically, opening up a host of opportunities for transdermal delivery.
Iontophoresis creates a potential gradient through the skin tissue with an applied electrical current or voltage and induces an increased migration of ionic drugs into the skin by electrostatic repulsion at the active electrode: negative ions are delivered by the cathode and positive ions by the anode.
Recent improvements in the design of iontophoresis devices have addressed several of the issues that have limited the acceptance of earlier-generation devices. Using a strategy that targets a limited number of specialized applications, iontophoresis suppliers are hoping to make a significant impact in selected therapeutic areas.
One of the major factors influencing the growth of active transdermal drug delivery is the cost of these systems relative to alternative delivery methods. With the cost of a disposable syringe at less than twenty cents forming the lower limit, active transdermal systems will be judged on a strict cost-incremental benefit basis by managed care entities
These findings are contained in a new and comprehensive report: Iontophoresis: Devices, Drugs and Therapeutic Prospects. The report analyzes commercial iontophoresis products and their therapeutic applications, examines economic, technology and design factors, and provides market data and forecasts to 2013.
More information is available at www.greystoneassociates.org .
About Greystone
Greystone Associates is a medical technology consulting firm focused on the areas of medical market strategy, product commercialization, venture development, and market research. We assist medical and healthcare market participants in achieving their business objectives through the creation of detailed development strategies, product commercialization programs, and comprehensive market and technology research and analysis. Our market research publications are designed, researched and written to provide timely and insightful information and data on focused market segments, with the aim of providing market participants with the essential knowledge to refine and execute their marketing plans and financial targets.
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Source: Greystone Associates
