What is the Origin of Transdermal Adhesive?

The technology originated in the field of pharmaceutical drug delivery, with the first commercial transdermal patch approved in the late 1970s. The term combines "transdermal," meaning across the skin, and "adhesive," referring to the material that allows the patch to stick. This method represents a significant innovation in patient compliance and the precise control of drug pharmacokinetics.

What is the Mechanism of Transdermal Adhesive?

The patch mechanism relies on passive diffusion, where the drug molecules move from the high concentration within the adhesive matrix, across the stratum corneum (the outermost skin layer), and into the capillary network in the dermis. The adhesive material is often formulated with permeation enhancers to temporarily and reversibly increase the skin's permeability. The slow, steady release rate is engineered to maintain therapeutic plasma levels over an extended period, which is ideal for hormones requiring stable, physiological concentrations.

Transdermal Adhesive ∞ Area

Transdermal Adhesive

Meaning

A transdermal adhesive refers to a specialized patch or matrix system designed to adhere securely to the skin, facilitating the continuous and controlled delivery of a pharmaceutical agent directly through the dermal layers into the systemic circulation. This non-invasive route of administration is particularly advantageous for hormones and other compounds that are poorly absorbed orally or undergo significant first-pass metabolism in the liver. The patch maintains a stable plasma concentration, effectively avoiding the pharmacokinetic peaks and troughs of traditional oral dosing.