Colistin-loaded dissolving microneedles for local treatment of skin infections: preparation, characterization

Miguel Ángel Rubio-López – Undergrad student, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Universitat de València (UV); José Alejandro Bernabeu-Martínez – PhD student, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Universitat de València (UV); Miquel Martínez-Navarrete – PhD student, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Universitat de València (UV); Ana Melero – Associate professor, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Universitat de València (UV)

Introduction:

Gram-negative bacteria have developed increasing antibiotic resistance, posing a major public health challenge. Skin infections caused by these pathogens require effective local treatment to prevent complications. Dissolving microarray patches (DMAPs) enable intradermal drug delivery by bypassing the stratum corneum and represent a promising approach for topical therapy (1). In this context, colistin—despite its systemic toxicity—offers potential for localized administration. This study aimed to develop colistin-loaded DMAPs for dermal delivery to treat Gram-negative skin infections.