Ibuprofen is among the most commonly prescribed and widely used over-the-counter drugs in the world. At standard doses it is a commonly effective painkiller; but at higher concentrations it can act as an anti-inflammatory. But while the drug is certainly accessible to anyone who needs it, many would prefer not to because they are not a fan of swallowing pills.
Well, fortunately, researchers at the University of Warwick have collaborated with bioadhesives company Medherant to develop an ibuprofen-releasing patch which can, in fact, deliver concentrated doses of ibuprofen right through the skin.
“Many commercial patches surprisingly don’t contain any pain relief agents at all, they simply soothe the body by a warming effect,” explains University of Warwick research chemist David Haddleton. He goes on to say, “Our technology now means that we can for the first time produce patches that contain effective doses of active ingredients such as ibuprofen for which no patches currently exist. Also, we can improve the drug loading and stickiness of patches containing other active ingredients to improve patient comfort and outcome.”
Traditional oral ibuprofen patches, of course, dissolve in the stomach and immediately set to work killing pain. The patch, however, releases a steady stream of the pain reliever over a 12-hour period.
Of course, the researchers also believe that this is just the beginning; there may be many more uses for this technology. Medherant CEO Nigel Davis describes: “Our transdermal patch technology expands the range of drugs that can be delivered via skin patches, and can significantly increase drug loading capabilities, while retaining adhesion and being thin and flexible. Thus our patches provide a better experience for patients, enhance safety, and deliver increased efficacy, which will lead to economic benefits to the health care system.”
