The word "transdermal" refers to something that is administered through the skin, such as a patch. The spelling of this word is trans-der-mal, and it is pronounced /trænsˈdɜːməl/. The first syllable, "trans," comes from the Latin prefix meaning "across," while "dermal" refers to the skin. By putting these two parts together, we get "transdermal," which accurately describes the delivery method of medication through the skin.
Transdermal is an adjective that refers to something that can pass through or be absorbed by the skin. The term is derived from the Latin words "trans" meaning "through" and "dermis" meaning "skin."
In the medical field, transdermal often describes a type of drug delivery system that allows medications to be absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. Transdermal patches or patches are the most common form of transdermal drug delivery. These patches are often made of thin, flexible material and contain a specific dosage of medication that is slowly released into the body over a period of time. The medication is absorbed through the skin and then enters the bloodstream, providing a controlled and continuous release of the drug.
Transdermal drug delivery is advantageous in many situations. It eliminates the need for oral medication, which can be problematic for patients who have difficulty swallowing or have gastrointestinal issues. It also avoids the inconvenience and discomfort of injections. Furthermore, it offers a more consistent and sustained release of medication, ensuring a steady therapeutic effect over an extended period.
In addition to drugs, transdermal can also refer to the absorption of other substances through the skin, such as nutrients, hormones, or toxins. Various cosmetic and personal care products, such as creams, lotions, and patches, utilize transdermal technology to deliver beneficial substances to the body or address specific skin conditions.
Overall, transdermal describes the ability of a substance or medication to permeate the skin and enter the bloodstream, providing an alternative method of drug delivery that offers convenience, effectiveness, and controlled release.
The word "transdermal" is derived from the Latin words "trans", meaning "across" or "through", and "dermis", meaning "skin". "Trans-" indicates movement from one side to the other, while "dermis" refers to the second layer of the skin, also known as the true skin or corium. Therefore, "transdermal" literally means "through the skin", and it is commonly used to describe drugs or medical treatments that are absorbed into the body through the skin.