SKIN TOLERABILITY AND ADHESION CHARACTERISTICS OF A NEW MATRIX PATCH AND A MARKETED RESERVOIR PATCH FOR ESTRADIOL DELIVERY

The objective of this study was to examine skin tolerability and adhes ion of a new matrix transdermal system (patch) compared to a marketed reservoir system. A total of 758 women wore matrix and reservoir patch es during two 96-h periods in a randomized, open-label, observer blind study. Erythema, edema, adhesion characteristics, and residual adhesi ve were assessed. Analysis of variance was the primary analytical meth od. The incidence of moderate to severe erythema and edema was low wit h both systems. However, significantly less erythema and edema were se en following removal of the matrix systems on both abdomen and buttock s. The matrix parches showed stronger adhesion but were harder and mor e uncomfortable to remove. However, most women did not report troubles ome discomfort upon removal of either system. In conclusion, a new mat rix system shows better skin tolerability and stronger adhesion compar ed to a reservoir system. The matrix system may be more difficult and slightly more uncomfortable to remove.