Skin patch

Skin Patch

A skin patch is a type of drug delivery system where the drug is delivered through the skin for systemic distribution. Skin patches are also known as transdermal patches and are commonly used for various medical treatments.

Overview

Skin patches are designed to deliver a precise dose of medication through the skin and into the bloodstream. They are typically made of an adhesive material that is coated with a drug-containing formula. The drug is released from the patch and absorbed through the skin, where it enters the bloodstream and is distributed throughout the body.

Types of Skin Patches

There are several types of skin patches, including:

• Matrix patches: These patches contain the drug in a polymer matrix. The drug is released as the matrix comes into contact with the skin.
• Reservoir patches: These patches have a separate drug reservoir, which is released through a rate-controlling membrane.
• Drug-in-adhesive patches: In these patches, the drug is mixed with the adhesive that attaches the patch to the skin.

Uses

Skin patches are used for a variety of medical treatments, including:

• Pain management: Patches containing fentanyl or buprenorphine are used for chronic pain management.
• Hormone replacement therapy: Patches containing estrogen or testosterone are used for hormone replacement therapy.
• Nicotine replacement therapy: Patches containing nicotine are used to help people quit smoking.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Skin patches offer several advantages over other forms of drug delivery, including:

• Consistent drug levels in the bloodstream
• Reduced side effects
• Improved patient compliance

However, they also have some disadvantages, including:

• Potential for skin irritation
• Limited to drugs that can be absorbed through the skin
• Not suitable for drugs that require high blood levels

See Also

• Drug delivery
• Pharmacokinetics
• Pharmacodynamics

Skin patch Resources
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