Microneedle Drug Delivery Systems Moving Toward Commercialization by Converging with Existing Delivery Technologies

(Amherst, NH) – For the past decade a small group of device development companies, often supported by academic partners and national government technology transfer programs, have been attempting to commercialize drug delivery products based on arrays of microneedles. By creating channels in the stratum corneum, these devices were expected to deliver therapeutic drugs across the skin and into the dermal layers. While several product efforts focused on achieving a local anesthetic effect, the majority pursued a pharmacokinetic model that involved migration of the API via interstitial fluid to the vasculature to achieve systemic delivery.

After years of prototyping unique array designs, a several development programs have migrated toward improving the performance of existing delivery methods. While novel microneedle designs still exist, the evolving landscape can now be grouped into three main strategic approaches: (1) arrays mounted on the end of syringes to effect an injection with minimal discomfort; (2) stand-alone drug-containing devices (coated microneedles or microneedle reservoir patch) designed to be applied or attached to the skin directly; (3) two-step delivery systems that employ an array to create microchannels through the skin followed by a drug-containing patch designed to deliver the drug through the newly-formed microchannels.

Microneedle technology is attaining commercial viability at a time when drug developers are faced with new challenges as they assess ways to administer a new class of compounds with significant therapeutic potential. The commercialization of microneedle drug delivery devices such as the sanofi-aventis Intanza influenza vaccine, which is based on the Becton Dickinson Soluvia syringe-mounted microneedle array device, is a milestone in the transition of microneedle drug delivery from development to market place. Microneedle technology promises to impact health care by allowing the precise injection of therapeutic agents to prescribed locations below the skin.

A new research study, Microneedle Drug Delivery: Technology, Devices, Players, Markets and Prospects analyzes existing and emerging microneedle delivery products, product candidates and development programs, profiles market participants, and assesses key demand and technology factors influencing the commercial market and shaping growth in this sector.

More information is available at www.greystoneassociates.org .



Source: Greystone Research Associates

About Greystone

Greystone Research Associates is a medical technology consulting firm focused on the areas of medical market strategy, product commercialization, venture development, and market research. We assist medical and healthcare market participants in achieving their business objectives through the creation of detailed development strategies, product commercialization programs, and comprehensive market and technology research and analysis. Our market research publications are designed, researched and written to provide timely and insightful information and data on focused market segments, with the aim of providing market participants with the essential knowledge to refine and execute their marketing plans and financial targets.

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