| abstract |
New and improved method for the transdermal administration of agents is provided utilizing iontophoresis in conjunction with a water-insoluble, stratum corneum-lipid modifier. The lipid modifier may be prior to iontophoresis or simultaneously therewith. The lipid modifier may be selected from a wide variety of moieties of the general formula R-X where R is a C₅ to C₂₈ alkyl or unsaturated alkyl and X is a member of the following: 1,3-dioxane; 1,3-dioxolane; lactam; morpholine; -COOH; -OH; -COOR'; -C-N(R')₂; cyclo ethylene and propylene carbonates; -CONH₂; -(CH₂-CH₂O) n H;n n acetals, and hemiacetals; and wherein R' is lower alkyl (e.g., C₁ to C₃) and n is an integer of from 1 to 20. Optionally there may be present a polar, water-soluble chemical compound from the group of alcohols, glycols, lactams, dioxolanes, esters, ureas, morpholine and the like. Compositions and articles useful in the processes of the present invention are also provided. |