Low-frequency sonophoresis: a review

Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2004 Mar 27;56(5):589-601. doi: 10.1016/j.addr.2003.10.024.

Abstract

Application of ultrasound enhances skin permeability to a variety of molecules (sonophoresis). The enhancement induced by ultrasound is particularly significant at low-frequencies (f<100 kHz, low-frequency sonophoresis). This review summarizes mechanisms and applications of low-frequency sonophoresis. In vitro, in vivo, as well as clinical studies demonstrating the effect of low-frequency ultrasound on transdermal drug delivery and glucose extraction are summarized. Mechanistic insights gained through a number of investigations are also reviewed. Finally, reports on the synergistic effect of low-frequency ultrasound with other enhancers including chemicals and iontophoresis are summarized.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Animals
  • Drug Delivery Systems / instrumentation*
  • Humans
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations / administration & dosage*
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations / metabolism
  • Phonophoresis / instrumentation*
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Skin Absorption
  • Technology, Pharmaceutical

Substances

  • Pharmaceutical Preparations