Revolutionizing Transdermal Patches: Navigating Clinical Challenges and Technological Progress

Transdermal patches, conceived to extend drug release, enhance bioavailability, and foster patient adherence, witnessed their inaugural approval by the USFDA in the 1980s. These patches, varying in size, constitute medicinal formulations with one or more active components that permeate the bloodstream through the skin. This review undertakes a comprehensive examination of recent strides in transdermal patch technology, encompassing critical facets such as their merits and demerits, advancements in microneedle technology, the evolution of transdermal patch generation, the integration of Artificial Intelligence, and the role of 3D printing technology. Additionally, the focus is placed on USFDA-approved patches. Various literature databases viz. Science Direct, PubMed, and Web of Sciences were explored for this research. The review furnished insights into the application of 3D printing technology in the fabrication of transdermal patches and disseminated information on USFDA-approved patches. The exploration delved into diverse strategies aimed at augmenting the efficiency of drug delivery and promoting patient compliance. Major transdermal products being marketed with details of their active substance have been discussed. Various applications of artificial intelligence in drug delivery have been summarized. It may be summarized that transdermal patch technology is not a thing of the past but a technology to stay and meet the demands of drug delivery in the present and future.