Transdermal Patch to Replace Syringe in Drug Delivery

3M Drug Delivery Systems unveiled data highlighting the tolerability and delivery characteristics of a hollow microstructured transdermal system (hMTS) for the systemic delivery of high volume injectables traditionally delivered by syringe and needle.

The technology was showcased in a poster session at the annual meeting of the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) in Atlanta. The data, which showed results from both animal and human testing, was presented by Kris Hansen, PhD, MTS Technical Manager for 3M Drug Delivery Systems. Most notable in the research findings, deliveries of human growth hormone and naloxone via hMTS patch were found to be comparable to a subcutaneous injection with regard to bioavailability and pharmacokinetic (PK) profile. The data demonstrates rapid transdermal infusion of non-traditional transdermal drugs in liquid formulations, highlighting the potential of this delivery technology for relatively high volume injectables, including small molecule salts and large molecules (up to 150 kD) traditionally delivered by intramuscular or subcutaneous injection.

According to the company, the data proves that this transdermal patch has the speed, efficiency and versatility of a syringe injection. The comopany also presented data reinforcing the efficacy of its solid microstructured transdermal system (sMTS) for delivery of vaccines as well as for systemic delivery of highly potent proteins.

New research showed that sMTS outperformed intramuscular injection as the optimal platform for the delivery of vaccines, alone or in concert with 3M vaccine adjuvants that are compatible with intradermal delivery. Pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles resulting from sMTS delivery of a variety of molecules were also presented. The results showed comparable performance to administration of the drug by subcutaneous injection.

Previous data have demonstrated that sMTS is a safe and user-friendly delivery platform that can provide improved stability, which may reduce the need for refrigeration of some biopharmaceutical formulations. It is well established that 3M polymer microstructures can penetrate the stratum corneum with minimal patient discomfort, and provide a delivery route for drugs typically available only via injection. The new hMTS application, coupled with reinforcement of the efficacy of sMTS, expands the range of drugs that can be delivered transdermally.

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