REPLACE NEEDLES & INJECTIONS WITH A PATCH?

REPLACE NEEDLES & INJECTIONS WITH A PATCH?

Sounds like science fiction from scientists that when you next go to the GP doctor in the surgery clinic that there will be no fear of needles (pain) and that injections will be by using a patch instead. However, the first tests on people could be carried out next year, the 238th meeting of American Chemical Society's annual conference heard.

Dr Mark Prausnitz, of the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta in the U.S., said: 'It's our goal to get rid of the need for hypodermic needles and replace them with a patch that can be applied by a patient. 'If you can move to something that's as easy to apply as a plaster, you've opened the door for people to self-administer their medicine.'

Dr Mark Prausnitz and his colleagues carry out research on biophysical methods of drug delivery using microneedles, ultrasound, and other approaches.Microscopic needles have been fabricated in the Prausnitz lab.

Dr Prausnitz added: 'Although it would probably first be used in a clinical setting, our vision is to have a self-administered flu vaccine patch. So instead of making an appointment with your doctor to get your flu shot, you can stop by the pharmacy or even get a patch in the mail and self-apply. We think that could very much increase the vaccine coverage since it would be easier for people to be vaccinated.'

Dr Martin Harris
Private GP in London Tel 020 8209 2401
www.surgerydoor.co.uk/professionals/private-gp/private-gp-directory/?ent...

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Written by Dr Martin Harris, Doctor and Mohel for Jewish Circumcision Clinic in London Bris Mila Brit Milah.
www.circumcisionlondon.co.uk

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Contact Dr Martin Harris