Advances In Polymer Microneedle Systems: A New Era For Transdermal Drug Administration

Abstract

Polymer-based microneedles (MNs) have revolutionized the field of transdermal drug delivery by offering a minimally invasive, patient-friendly, and efficient alternative to conventional routes such as oral and injectable administration. This review explores the latest advancements in polymer microneedle technologies, with a focus on their classification, material selection, drug loading strategies, release kinetics, therapeutic applications, and clinical translation. Biodegradable polymers such as polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), chitosan, and hyaluronic acid have demonstrated superior biocompatibility and tunable mechanical properties, enabling precise and sustained drug release. Microneedles have shown significant promise in diverse therapeutic areas including vaccination, insulin delivery, cancer therapy, hormone replacement, and dermatological treatments. We also discuss the current status of clinical trials, regulatory frameworks established by the FDA and EMA, and commercial trends driving innovation. Although challenges such as manufacturing scalability and regulatory standardization persist, future directions point toward smart microneedles integrated with biosensors and digital health platforms. These advances position polymer microneedles as a transformative technology in personalized and decentralized medicine.