The potential of microneedle platforms in addressing pediatric drug delivery challenges: perspectives of healthcare professionals and parents

Abstract

Background: Pediatric drug delivery faces significant challenges owing to children’s unique physiology and limitations of conventional dosage forms. There is a growing need for age-appropriate, safe, and effective alternatives. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the challenges in selecting pediatric pharmaceutical dosage forms and to evaluate the potential of microneedles (MNs) as an innovative solution, capturing perspectives of healthcare professionals (HCPs) and parents. Methods: Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted: (1) a survey for pediatricians (n = 154) on dosage form challenges, and (2) a survey of HCPs and parents (n = 386) on perceptions of MNs for pediatric drug delivery. Responses were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Results: Pediatricians identified key barriers: unsuitable formulations (53%), injection distress (38%), and inadequate strength availability (29%). Cost (59%), therapeutic efficacy (60%), and administration route (53%) dominated prescribing decisions. Anti-infectives (69%) and analgesics (47%) were top candidates for reformulation. Respondents (85%) acknowledged needle phobia as a major issue, and 84% expressed willingness to use MNs, peaking at 93% for children aged 1–3 years. MNs’ perceived advantages included reduced needle phobia, improved compliance in chronic diseases, and self-administration potential. Primary concerns included practicality in emergencies (59%), drug-loading capacity (46%), and dosing accuracy. Conclusions: Significant unmet needs persist in pediatric drug delivery. MNs demonstrate strong potential to address core challenges, particularly needle aversion and formulation unsuitability, with high acceptance among stakeholders. Translation requires overcoming barriers in manufacturing scalability, regulatory clarity, and user-centered design. Coordinated efforts in education, targeted formulation development, and policy advocacy are essential for clinical integration.