Microneedle arrays and methods of manufacturing the same
First Claim
1. A method of delivering a microneedle array to a skin impact site, the method comprising:
- positioning a microneedle array proximate a delivery site, the microneedle array comprising a plurality of microneedles protruding from a surface;
applying an impact force to the microneedle array over a period of less than about 1 second, wherein the plurality of microneedles are driven through the stratum corneum at the skin impact site.
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Abstract
Microneedle arrays, methods of manufacturing microneedles and methods of using microneedle arrays. The microneedles in the microneedle arrays may be in the form of tapered structures that include at least one channel formed in the outside surface of each microneedle. The microneedles may have bases that are elongated in one direction. The channels in microneedles with elongated bases may extend from one of the ends of the elongated bases towards the tips of the microneedles. The channels formed along the sides of the microneedles may optionally be terminated short of the tips of the microneedles. The microneedle arrays may also include conduit structures formed on the surface of the substrate on which the microneedle array is located. The channels in the microneedles may be in fluid communication with the conduit structures. One manner of using microneedle arrays of the present invention is in methods involving the penetration of skin to deliver medicaments or other substances and/or extract blood or tissue.
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Citations
16 Claims
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1. A method of delivering a microneedle array to a skin impact site, the method comprising:
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positioning a microneedle array proximate a delivery site, the microneedle array comprising a plurality of microneedles protruding from a surface;
applying an impact force to the microneedle array over a period of less than about 1 second, wherein the plurality of microneedles are driven through the stratum corneum at the skin impact site. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
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13. A microneedle array delivery device comprising:
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a microneedle array comprising a plurality of microneedles protruding from a surface;
a driver operably connected to the microneedle array, wherein the driver comprises stored energy;
wherein release of the stored energy results in application of an impact force to the microneedle array over a period of less than about 1 second. - View Dependent Claims (14, 15, 16)
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Specification