FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ATENOLOL TRANSDERMAL PATCHES- A REVIEW

Atenolol is a widely prescribed β₁-selective adrenergic blocker used in the management of hypertension and angina, but its oral therapy is limited by first-pass metabolism, variable plasma levels, and patient non-compliance. Transdermal drug delivery systems offer a promising alternative by providing sustained drug release, improved bioavailability, and enhanced patient adherence while minimizing gastrointestinal side effects. This review outlines the fundamental principles of transdermal drug delivery, skin structure and permeation barriers, and key formulation strategies for atenolol transdermal patches. It highlights polymer selection, excipients, preparation methods, evaluation techniques, and the role of chemical and physical enhancement technologies. Overall, transdermal delivery represents a viable approach for improving long-term antihypertensive therapy.