Abstract

NEEDLE FREE DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS: A REVIEW

Verma Mayank*, Khan Shahid, Aggarwal Geeta, Kumar Hari S.L.

ABSTRACT

Needle-free drug delivery systems are novel ways to introduce various medicines into patients without piercing the skin with a conventional needle. The aim of modern needle-free drug delivery system is to enhance the prescribing and adoption of important drugs that require self-injection, such as biologics. These drug delivery systems work on the mechanism in which liquid medication is forced at an elevated speed through a small orifice that is held against the skin. Due to this an ultrafine stream of high pressure fluid is created, that penetrates the skin devoid of the use of a needle, thus faster administration of drug occurs as compared to conventional needles. Although excellent bioavailability has been reported for a number of drugs, occasional pain and bruising have limited wide acceptance of jet injectors. A needleless device may also help improve compliance among patients who might otherwise avoid the discomfort of regularly injecting themselves with drugs. Today, they are an increasingly rising technology that promises the administration of medicine efficient with reduction of pain. Companies are not only working on developing technologies that are safer and easier to use, but also on alternatives which can deliver more types of medicines. This article aims to discuss about the needle less drug delivery system, their applications and advantages over needle injections. A comprehensive literature review was done about needle free injections technologies and devices used. Currently available marketed products were clearly mentioned in the article. An overview of recent trends and other needleless drug delivery systems was also explained.

Keywords: Needle Free Injections, Needle Free Devices, Drug Administration and Drug Delivery.