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Transdermal delivery and formulation design of opioids: Where are we now and where are we heading?

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Keng Wooi NgORCiD

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Abstract

Opioids have long been the cornerstone of pain management, predominantly administered via oral and parenteral routes. However, these modalities are frequently limited by systemic adverse effects and low oral bioavailability. Transdermal delivery has therefore emerged as an appealing alternative, exemplified by the successful commercialisation of fentanyl and buprenorphine patches. Despite this progress, the past decades have not seen comparable advances for other opioids including morphine, the clinical gold standard, raising critical questions for researchers and industry alike. In this context, the present review provides an overview of the current opioids explored for transdermal formulation design and examines the underlying translational barriers that have constrained progress. We further discuss emerging strategies and insights that may guide the next generation of transdermal opioid therapeutics.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Liang YM, Azizi J, Ng KW, Goh CF

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Journal of Controlled Release

Year: 2026

Volume: 394

Print publication date: 10/06/2026

Online publication date: 02/04/2026

Acceptance date: 30/03/2026

ISSN (print): 0168-3659

ISSN (electronic): 1873-4995

Publisher: Elsevier BV

URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.114894

DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.114894

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