Advancements in Skin-Mediated Drug Delivery: Mechanisms, Techniques, and Applications

Adv Healthc Mater. 2024 Mar;13(7):e2302375. doi: 10.1002/adhm.202302375. Epub 2023 Dec 7.

Abstract

Skin-mediated drug delivery methods currently are receiving significant attention as a promising approach for the enhanced delivery of drugs through the skin. Skin-mediated drug delivery offers the potential to overcome the limitations of traditional drug delivery methods, including oral administration and intravenous injection. The challenges associated with drug permeation through layers of skin, which act as a major barrier, are explored, and strategies to overcome these limitations are discussed in detail. This review categorizes skin-mediated drug delivery methods based on the means of increasing drug permeation, and it provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms and techniques associated with these methods. In addition, recent advancements in the application of skin-mediated drug delivery are presented. The review also outlines the limitations of ongoing research and suggests future perspectives of studies regarding the skin-mediated delivery of drugs.

Keywords: bioelectronics; skin-mediated drug delivery; wearable devices.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • Skin Absorption*
  • Skin* / metabolism

Substances

  • Pharmaceutical Preparations