A Novel Approach to Transdermal Delivery of Functional Ingredients

A novel Approach to Transdermal Delivery of Functional Ingredients: A Case Study of Urah Transdermal Glucosamine Cream

A paper presented at the WHAT Medicine Conference & Exhibition 19th-21st June 2009, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

BY Dr. Jonathan Obaje (PhD, C Sci, C Chem, MRSC, UK)

Consultant Scientist

Urah Resources Pte Ltd, Eunos TechPark, 60 Kaki Bukit Place #04-08, SINGAPORE 415979

Abstract:

The skin, being the largest human organ, would have been by far the most available delivery system of the human body. However, for the skin to fulfill its primary roles as barrier, defense, and temperature regulator, the skin must act as an “outlet” rather than an “inlet” conduit. The human epidermis (the topcoat) is shed once in a month (Beauty is not only skin-deep but lasts only 30 days at a time!) Consequently, Topical formulation which is able to deliver drugs or functional ingredients effectively across the many layers of the skin without side effects has remained an illusion till now.

Most existing transdermal delivery mechanisms are either mechanical or inductive. Example; ionotophoresis -application of electrical field to drive drug molecules into the skin; ultrasonic – use of vibration forces; and massage (use of hand pressure); and so on. The disadvantages of these mechanisms are poor delivery efficiencies, possible skin shock and skin reactions, high cost of equipment and or high operational costs.

Urah Singapore recently developed a passive (unaided) transdermal delivery system (Obalin®) using a water-based emulsion matrix capable of transporting optimal concentrations of functional ingredients across skin layers seamlessly into the body with little or no side effects. Urah Micellar Transdermal Delivery System, which is based on US Patent No. 6846916, has been successfully applied in the topical delivery of glucosamine for the treatment of musculoskeletal ailments.