Dissolving microneedles: an advanced approach for transdermal drug delivery

Dissolving microneedles (DMNs) are tiny, polymer-based needles designed for minimally invasive drug delivery.Traditionally, DMN arrays are mounted onto patches to aid their insertion into the skin.Microneedles are revolutionizing transdermal drug delivery by providing a minimally invasive and efficient way to administer therapeutic agents.These microscopic needles-available in solid, hollow, coated, and dissolving forms-work by creating microchannels in the skin to enhance drug absorption.In contrast, dissolving microneedles (DMNs) offer superior drug-loading capabilities, easy fabrication, biodegradable properties, and the potential to be made entirely from the active pharmaceutical ingredient, eliminating the need for extra excipients."Microlancer," an innovative micropillar-based system that enables self-administration of DMNs.This novel approach ensures rapid and efficient drug delivery, achieving an impressive 97 2% delivery efficiency in less than a second, regardless of skin type or hair presence.This review explores the latest developments and future directions of DMNs, focusing on their advantages, challenges, and manufacturing techniques.The diverse applications of DMNs in areas such as cosmetics, vaccine delivery, diagnostics, cancer therapy, pain management, diabetes treatment, and dermatological disorders are discussed.Additionally, it highlights ongoing clinical trials, commercial advancements, and existing barriers to large-scale adoption, providing insight into the evolving landscape of dissolving microneedle technology.However, variations in skin elasticity and hair density often prevent complete insertion, leading to suboptimal drug delivery.