Transdermal delivery of polidocanol from sol–gel patch: ex vivo skin permeation studies using iontophoresis for the treatment of varicose veins

A sol-gel processed silica matrix for iontophoresis based drug delivery of Polidocanol (drug widely used for the treatment of varicose veins) is reported. The novel sol-gel matrix provided a suitable environment to the drug molecule and allowed the sustained release of drug under the influence of current. A novel sol-gel iontophoresis drug delivery system can be utilized for controlled drug delivery in future to treat varicose veins to reduce pain. The paper should be of interest to readers in the area of novel materials and drug delivery applications.