Microneedle arrays and methods of manufacturing the same
US6881203B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 5, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 19, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 6, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2037/0053
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Microneedle arrays, methods of manufacturing microneedles and methods of using microneedle arrays. The microneedles in the microneedle arrays may be in the form of tapered structures that include at least one channel formed in the outside surface of each microneedle. The microneedles may have bases that are elongated in one direction. The channels in microneedles with elongated bases may extend from one of the ends of the elongated bases towards the tips of the microneedles. The channels formed along the sides of the microneedles may optionally be terminated short of the tips of the microneedles. The microneedle arrays may also include conduit structures formed on the surface of the substrate on which the microneedle array is located. The channels in the microneedles may be in fluid communication with the conduit structures. One manner of using microneedle arrays of the present invention is in methods involving the penetration of skin to deliver medicaments or other substances and/or extract blood or tissue.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.