Effectiveness of transdermal patch use compared to other pharmaceutical forms

Abstract

Introduction. The detailed study of the interaction of transdermal patches with the human body is the key moment for the development of a new therapeutic era, since the technology of preparation is the main factor on which the efficacy of any drug depends. Due to the multiple adverse reactions to the administration of tablets and other pharmaceutical forms, modern technologies present a new transdermal patch drug form to the pharmaceutical. Aim of study. To highlight the advantages and efficacy of the use of transdermal patches in relation to other pharmaceutical forms (tablets, injectable solutions). Methods and materials. Bibliographical sources such as NCBI, PubMed and others were analysed, as well as research and observation methods were used, by means of a questionnaire in which more than 100 people responded, including patients, teachers, students and pharmacists. Results. Transdermal patch is an adhesive, transdermal pharmaceutical form in which the active substance penetrates the skin and reaches the bloodstream. They do not have a high popularity among patients, compared to tablets. Advantages include non-invasive, painless administration, reduced frequency of adverse reactions and avoidance of the first hepatic passage.Of those surveyed, the majority had used for the first time transdermal patches from the analgesic class containing active ingredients extracted from medicinal plants: capsaicin, L-menthol, eucalyptus oil, camphor and others. Of the synthetic substances diclofenac sodium is used, while no respondent used opioid analgesic. The majority of patients confirmed that the transdermal patches that they had used were been bought abroad,because according to the State Nomenclature of Medicines of the Republic of Moldova it contains a small assortment, the most common being contraceptives with levonorgestrel and preparations with opioid analgesic-fentanyl. Compared to the transdermal patch, tablets have several disadvantages, among which the mucosal irritation and/or increased acidity, furthermore unstable concentration of the drug leads to increased frequency of its administration and to the occurrence of adverse reactions, low bioavailability compared to the transdermal patch. In turn, injectable solutions present an invasive, painful pharmaceutical form that requires qualified medical personnel. Conclusion. The transdermal patch is one of the most convenient pharmaceutical forms used by the patient. Rapid therapeutic effects and no side effects in therapeutic doses. The use of transdermal patches is possible in unconscious patients or patients who have contraindication to per os administration.