Percutaneous absorption of drugs.

Some practical applications of basic information in percutaneous absorption have been reviewed. Drug release from vehicles is discussed in relation to glucocorticosteroids. Penetration enhancers are reviewed with emphasis on the need for further investigations and applications of enhancers for clinical use. The role of the stratum corneum as a barrier to and a reservoir for drugs is discussed. Special problems in penetration as presented by regional anatomic variations, nails, and follicles are mentioned. Overall, we review some practical problems existing in the penetration of drugs through human skin.