IONTOPHORESIS

Iontophoresis can carry drugs through the skin using a unidirectional (galvanic) current. For this application, there are 2 electrodes: the drug is put on the electrode that has its same polarity, so the current conveys medicated ions towards the electrode of the opposite pole. The drug ions find their way through the follicle ducts and sweat glands.

In the deep dermis part of the ions go into the capillary circulation, while the remaining part, by binding to proteins, accumulate in slow release active deposits.

Iontophoresis is contraindicated in patients with pacemakers, metallic fixation devices, skin lesions, epilepsy, and cutaneous hypoesthesia.