Microneedles: A New Paradigm in Transdermal Delivery of Therapeutic Agents

Microneedles represented a novel transdermal delivery system that created micron-sized pathways to deliver drugs through the epidermis, effectively bypassing the stratum corneum and allowing for painless administration. This method was explored for delivering hormones, vaccines, peptides, and cosmetics, with microneedles being fabricated in various forms such as dissolvable, solid, coated, or hollow. The review highlighted the mechanisms of dermal penetration, fabrication materials, and design strategies of microneedles, noting their potential as a cost-effective and well-tolerated modality with low side effects. Although some products had reached the market, further research and clinical studies were needed to establish their large-scale production and clinical efficacy.