| abstract |
A method and apparatus for attaching a microprojection member (44) including a number of microprojections (90) to a stratum corneum by impact. The method and apparatus is used to improve the transport of an agent across the skin to deliver or collect the agent. The applicator (10, 60, 80) impinges the microprojection member (44) against the stratum corneum with an amount of impact determined to effectively pierce the skin with the microprojection. The preferred applicator (10, 60, 80) provides an impact force of at least 0.05 joules per cm 2 of the microprojection member (44) within 10 milliseconds, causing the microprojection member (44) to strike the stratum corneum. |