Development and evaluation of a heparin gel for transdermal delivery via laser-generated micropores.

Aim: Our study investigated the feasibility of transdermal delivery of heparin, an anticoagulant used against venous thromboembolism, as an alternative to intravenous administration. Materials & methods: Skin was pretreated using ablative laser (Precise Laser Epidermal System [P.L.E.A.S.E.®] technology) for enhanced delivery of heparin. In vitro permeation studies using static Franz diffusion cells provided a comparison between delivery from 0.3% w/v heparin-loaded poloxamer gel and solution across untreated and laser-treated dermatomed porcine ear skin. Results: No passive delivery of heparin was observed. Laser-assisted delivery from solution (26.07 ± 1.82 μg/cm2) was higher (p < 0.05) than delivery from heparin gel (11.28 ± 5.32 μg/cm2). However, gel is likely to sustain the delivery over prolonged periods like a maintenance dose via continuous intravenous infusion. Conclusion: Thus, ablative laser pretreatment successfully delivered heparin, establishing the feasibility of delivering hydrophilic macromolecules using the transdermal route.

Citation

Deepal Vora, Yujin Kim, Ajay K Banga. Development and evaluation of a heparin gel for transdermal delivery via laser-generated micropores. Therapeutic delivery. 2021 Feb;12(2):133-144

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PMID: 33496196

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