Minimally Invasive Dissolving Microneedle Arrays for Transdermal Delivery of Therapeutics.

Kaniz Fatema – Student, School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland; Jagdish Jaiswal – Senior Research fellow, The University of Auckland; Nicola Whittle – Clinician, Anesthetist, Waikato Hospital, Hamilton

Introduction:

Dissolvable microneedle (MN) arrays represent a transformative transdermal platform, facilitating efficient systemic drug delivery by penetrating the skin’s outermost barrier. These hair-thin microstructures offer a minimally invasive, pain-free alternative to traditional injections, enhancing patient compliance and addressing needle-phobia. Furthermore, the "apply-and-peel" nature of MN arrays simplifies self-administration, mitigates needle-stick injury risks, and streamlines biohazard disposal (1,2). This research focuses on the optimisation of dissolving MN arrays as an alternative route to ensure the safe, effective delivery of therapeutic agents, such as sedatives.