| By :
Stephen Daniels
As the fields of science and medicine progress, researchers are constantly looking for ways to improve upon the current methods of administering medications. One method that has received quite a bit of publicity as of late is the transdermal delivery of medications. Doctors and scientists alike prize this form of medicinal administration for its lack of invasiveness, as well as its high level of efficacy. Put simply, transdermal delivery allows drugs to be absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. This can occur through a variety of different forms of topical administration, such as creams, patches and oils. Most people have heard of or seen nicotine replacement patches, which are an excellent example of this type of medication. Transdermal delivery is not only effective and non-invasive, but it can also focus on specific areas of the body. For instance, if one has immense swelling on the leg as a result of an injury, a form of anti-inflammatory can be administered directly to the affected area. This factor alone is enough to warrant further use of and research into this method of drug administration for various ailments. Topical drug delivery is especially useful for patients who suffer from illnesses that require several shots or doses of medication per day. The difference between dealing with the latter and just wearing a patch is astounding and can practically change one's life overnight, providing freedom from uncomfortable methods with the comfort of a simple patch or cream. As this method of administration advances, scientists and doctors alike are hoping that it can be used for practically any and all forms of illness. Meanwhile, patients with diseases such as diabetes and cancer are anxiously awaiting the production and availability of these drugs in the future. Spearheading the advancement and use of transdermal medications are compounding pharmacies. Compound pharmacists can prepare custom prescriptions for those who may need a medication in a dosage different from the standardized doses produced by large drug companies. Custom pharmacists can provide for people with special needs by turning some forms of medication into an absorbent gel. Compounding pharmacies are not new - in fact, all drugs were individually prepared historically. However, as wide segments of the public are experiencing allergic reactions to additives in mass-produced drugs, or desiring a more pure form of medication free of additives, customized compounding pharmacies are once again becoming big business - and improving the lives of thousands of people.
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