Drug Delivery Through Microneedles for Improved Permeability and Efficacy: Fabrication, Methodology and Applications

Abstract

Microneedles are categorized into solid, coating, dissolving, and hydrogel formulations, featuring materials such as silicon, metal, polymer, glass, and ceramic. Diverse manufacturing techniques are employed to impart distinct shapes, sizes, and properties. Ongoing clinical trials demonstrate the evolving nature of microneedles, incorporating a variety of drugs with consistently positive outcomes. The field of microneedles in transdermal drug delivery is rapidly expanding, promising improved patient access to medications by supplanting traditional administration methods. This innovative approach holds great promise for delivering therapeutic effects across a range of fields. This innovative technology exhibits remarkable flexibility, capable of administering several hundred milligrams of proteins directly into the systemic circulation. Researchers are exploring the combination of methods, for transdermal drug delivery and to enhance drug permeability further. Consequently, microneedles can be designed with various modifications to intelligently facilitate drug delivery through the skin, representing a ground breaking advancement in the realm of transdermal drug delivery systems. This review provides current approach, challenges and trend in microneedle applicability and fabrication.