Dissolving intranasal microneedle swabs for OTC allergy medication delivery
A novel intranasal microneedle swab system designed for delivering over-the-counter allergy medications using a biocompatible, dissolvable polymer. This technology offers a painless, self-administered, and rapid drug delivery method, enhancing consumer access to allergy treatments.
Overview
The dissolving intranasal microneedle swab is an innovative drug delivery system designed to administer over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medications directly through the nasal mucosa. Utilizing a biocompatible polymer, this technology allows for quick and painless application by consumers, providing a minimally invasive alternative to traditional methods. The microneedles, each less than 1mm in height, are fabricated using 3D printing and dissolve within minutes after administration, ensuring rapid and effective delivery of therapeutics.
Technical specifications
- Biocompatible Polymer: FDA-approved, tunable for mechanical strength and dissolvability.
- Microneedle Design: Less than 1mm in height, capable of penetrating superficial nasal mucosal layers.
- Administration: Designed for self-administration with familiarity akin to nasal swabs.
- Drug Compatibility: Compatible with OTC drugs such as Flonase and Otrivine.
- Fabrication: Low-cost, room-temperature stable, and scalable manufacturing processes following GMP guidelines.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 3, the microneedle swab design, fabrication, and initial lab validation have been completed. Further studies are planned to test drug release, efficacy, and biocompatibility with human nasal cells to ensure readiness for clinical use and commercial viability.
About University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire
The University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire is a public, master’s-level university in the Universities of Wisconsin system, noted for a strong faculty–undergraduate research culture. A formal collaboration with Mayo Clinic Health System creates an innovation hub for community health research and connects campus talent with clinicians. For product and process development, partners can access advanced shared instrumentation—particularly in materials characterization and analytical chemistry—and work through a single-entry Office of Corporate and Community Partnerships. Research is supported by competitive federal and state funding, including the National Science Foundation. Intellectual property and commercialization are handled through WiSys, the system’s designated technology transfer office.
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