Adaptable gold solid microneedle arrays for drug delivery

Abstract

Fear of needles is prevalent, estimated at around 10% in adults worldwide. We report on new solid microneedle arrays made of gold in combination with micro holes to replace traditional hypodermic needles for drug delivery. This work provides a breakthrough for painless drug delivery with precise control over the microneedle width, height, array density and position. Results show successful delivery of liquids through a parafilm layer representing the stratum corneum of the human skin.