New trends in transdermal technologies: development of the skin patch, Menorest.

Menorest is a transdermal patch, in which 17 beta-estradiol is dispersed as a microfine suspension in an adhesive matrix. This system reduces the size and thickness of the patch making it more cosmetically acceptable than older reservoir patches. Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that, at doses from 25-100 micrograms/day, Menorest releases estradiol at a constant and reproducible rate. There is a linear relationship between the dose of estradiol administered (which is determined by the surface area of the patch) and the plasma concentration of estradiol. Unlike the standard reference reservoir patch, Estraderm, or another matrix patch, Systen/Evorel, Menorest maintains plasma estradiol concentrations at or above the target level of 40 pg/ml throughout the 80-h dosing interval.