Growth of transdermal delivery has been restricted by the need to limit candidate drugs to molecules small enough to passively migrate through the stratum corneum, a limitation that excludes passive transdermal patches as a viable option for the growing number of protein and peptide therapeutic compounds that will represent an increasing share of future NCEs. To expand the limits of transdermal drug delivery, developers are employing  electrical current to affect active transport through the skin. This technique can increase the upper molecular size limit dramatically, opening up a host of opportunities for transdermal delivery. Iontophoresis products are positioned to make a significant impact in selected therapeutic areas.  This report includes analysis of iontophoretic transdermal technologies, market and regulatory factors, product evaluations, and profiles of leading sector participants.

Publication Date: August 2006