IMPROVED ELECTRODES FOR IONTOPHORESIS

摘要

An improved electrode is disclosed for use in adminstering drug by means of iontophoresis, comprising a couductive element (22) for receiving an electric current from a current source; a reticulated I element (20) having a plurality of reticulum for receiving an ionic drug solution for inotophoretic delivery, the reticulum structure being loaded or having applied thereto a hydrophilic polymer which is viscous when hydrated; and means (24) for securing the reticulated element to the conductive element so that electric current will be distributed substantially unifomlly through the reticulated element when hydrated and when current is delivered to the conductive element. The presendy preferred embodiment utilizes open cell polyurethane foam as the reticulate element (20) and high molecular weight polyethylene oxide as the hydrophilic polymer. The reticulum is further loaded with a surfactant which serves to improve the rate of hydration.