Transdermal drug delivery is a method of administering medications through the skin for systemic or local therapeutic effect. It typically involves the use of transdermal systems (most commonly adhesive patches) that deliver a controlled dose of a drug across the skin and into the bloodstream over an extended period. This route of administration bypasses the gastrointestinal tract and first-pass hepatic metabolism, improving bioavailability and reducing variability in drug absorption. Transdermal delivery is used in a range of clinical applications, including hormone replacement therapy, pain management, cardiovascular conditions, and motion sickness. Compared with oral or injectable routes, it is non-invasive and may improve patient adherence, although its use is limited by the skin's barrier properties and the physicochemical characteristics required of suitable drugs.
Methods of transdermal delivery Cream DMSO solution Hydrogel Iontophoresis (using electricity) Jet injector Liniment Lip balm Liposomes Lotion Medicated shampoo Ointment Paste Thin-film drug delivery Topical cream Topical gel Transdermal patch Transdermal spray Transfersome vesicles
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