Technology Platforms
Iontophoresis Platform
Iontophoresis is the use of electric current to enhance the penetration of drugs through various surfaces on the human body, mainly skin and nails.
Iontophoresis is an attractive technology to improve drug delivery because it allows for a highly concentrated delivery of medication with a single dose and is pain-free for the patient.
During the manufacturing process, a drug molecule is formulated with a charge (ionization) in conjunction with a carrier vehicle compound that promotes drug solubility. Adhesive electrode pads containing the ionized drug are applied to the affected area and a low-level electric current is applied to facilitate movement of the drug into the body.
A typical iontophoresis device consists of an adjustable direct current (DC) delivery system and electrodes, connected by wires. In the iontophoresis process, current flows from the delivery system to the electrodes containing the ionized therapeutic agent and the medication is transferred across the skin or nail bed.
Nitric Bio has two ongoing iontophoresis-based clinical programs. The company’s lead program is its Phase 2 study for the treatment of onychomycosis, commonly known as toenail fungus. The company is also in Phase 2 development using iontophoresis in the treatment of non-genital warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Please click here to learn more about onychomycosis and warts.