Hands-Free Topical Applicator for No-Rub Drug Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing topical drug delivery systems, such as creams and ointments, are cumbersome, greasy, and require manual application, leading to poor patient compliance and adherence due to their sticky nature, time-consuming application, and potential skin irritation, which affects the efficacy of treatment.
Innovation Solution
A hands-free applicator drug delivery system (THADS™) with an airless metered pump and a detachable wand connected to a sponge tip, allowing for drug application without rubbing, combined with an adhesive bandage pod (Appod™) that adheres to the skin for continuous drug delivery, enabling multi-modal administration of drugs without manual handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional topical products (ointments and creams) are used, then the drug can be held on the skin for longer time, but the application process is time-consuming and requires manual rubbing which reduces patient compliance
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the topical product into two separate components: a greasy vehicle (ointment or cream) that provides prolonged drug holding, and a separate aqueous solution containing the actual drug. The aqueous solution is applied first to provide immediate therapeutic effect, followed by the greasy vehicle that maintains drug presence on skin for extended periods without requiring manual rubbing application.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary delivery system consisting of a pump mechanism and applicator that automatically dispenses the aqueous drug solution. This intermediary device eliminates the need for manual application and rubbing, allowing the drug to be delivered directly to the skin surface without patient handling, thereby reducing application time and improving compliance.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If greasy vehicles are used to hold drug on skin, then drug residence time is extended, but the greasy nature causes sticking to clothes and dress which reduces patient acceptability
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the functions of drug delivery and drug holding into two distinct components applied in sequence. The aqueous drug solution provides immediate therapeutic action without grease, while the greasy vehicle applied afterward serves solely as a protective barrier to maintain drug presence on skin. This segmentation allows the greasy component to remain on skin without transferring to clothes, as it is applied after the drug has already been delivered.
Solution Approach 2:
The aqueous drug solution is applied first as a preliminary action to deliver the active ingredient directly to the skin. Only after this preliminary drug delivery is complete is the greasy vehicle applied to maintain drug residence. This preliminary action ensures that the drug is already in place before the greasy barrier is formed, preventing the need for subsequent rubbing that would transfer grease to clothes.
3Reliability
If manual application of topical products is used, then direct drug contact with skin is achieved, but patient compliance is reduced due to difficulty of application compared to oral medications
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a self-service mechanism where the pump and applicator automatically dispense the aqueous drug solution onto the skin without requiring patient manipulation. The device performs the application function itself, eliminating the need for patients to manually apply and rub the medication, thereby making the process as easy as oral medication while maintaining reliable drug delivery directly to the skin surface.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to a method of treating one or more topical diseases and enhancing patient compliance using a topical drug delivery system, applicator, composition and adhesive bandage pod (APPOD™).