8. Technological, biopharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic advances: New formulations of application on the skin and oral mucosa

Currently a growing interest to improve the pharmacological therapy exists, not only by the production and the appearance of new drugs, but guaranteeing that the uses of those which already exist, become more effective. In fact, the conventional pharmaceutical formulations of different drugs present a few secondary effects due to oral administration. In order to avoid these undesired side effects, the purpose of current therapeutic is the development and research of formulations as an alternative to others routes of administration. Therefore, in spite of the undoubtedly complete parenteral absorption, the transdermal and transbuccal routes appear to be a rather attractive alternative to provide an efficient absorption. In this chapter a new technological, biopharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic approach of strategies for application on skin and buccal mucosa are reported. Correspondence/Reprint request: Dr. Ana C. Calpena Campmany, Section of Biopharmacy and Pharmacokinetic, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Barcelona University, Avenue Joan XXIII, 08028 Barcelona, Spain. E-mail: [email protected] Ana C. Calpena et al. 176 In the future new transdermal drug delivery systems will emerge to be more effective, equipped with an improved aesthetic appearance, better adherence and greater diffusion. But to reach these aims, it is necessary previous knowledge of histology and physiology of skin, and factors involved in the penetration of drugs through it.