NOVEL APPROACH: MICROSPONGE DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM

Transdermal drug delivery system (TDS) is not practically for delivery of materials whose final target is skin itself. Application topical agents generally offer many problems such as rashes, skin irritancy and burning sensation etc due to higher percutaneous absorption of drugs on the skin. Some conventional dosage e.g., gels and ointments which are often aesthetically unappealing, greasiness and stickiness etc. that often result into lack of patient compliance. For reduce this side effects, microsponge technology offers many advantage over the conventional drug delivery. The microsponge based drug delivery system is a unique technology for controlled release and enhanced drug deposition in the skin while minimizing transdermal penetration of topically active agents. Drug loaded microsponge consist of microporous beads, typically 10-25 μm in diameter. Microsponge delivery system (MDS) can provide increased efficacy for topically active agents with enhanced safety, extended product stability, enhanced formulation flexibility, reduced side effects and improved aesthetic properties in an efficient and novel manner. In addition these are non-irritating, non-allergenic, non-mutagenic, and non-toxic. MDS technology is being used currently in cosmetics, over-the-counter skin care, sunscreen and prescription products.