MICRO NEEDLE- BASED DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM: TECHNOLOGICAL PROGRESS AND THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL

A minimally invasive substitute for traditional oral and parenteral routes, micro needle (MN)-based drug delivery systems have been a game changer in transdermal and intradermal therapies. By penetrating the stratum corneum with micron-scale projections, these methods get beyond the main obstacle to transdermal medication administration. Numerous MN kinds, including solid, coated, hollow, and dissolving micro needles, have been developed because of advancements in micro fabrication, biomaterials, and nanotechnology. Each form of MN is designed for a particular therapeutic use. Drug loading, controlled release, and targeting capabilities have been greatly improved by recent inventions such stimuli-responsive MNs, 3D-printed structures, and nanoparticle-integrated systems. Clinically, MNs have shown promise in enhancing patient compliance and bioavailability in cancer therapy, insulin administration, vaccine delivery, and dermatological therapies. Longterm safety, regulatory approval, and large-scale manufacturing continue to be obstacles despite encouraging advancements. The technological developments, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential of micro needle-based drug delivery systems are highlighted in this study, along with anticipated future developments for their clinical application.