Final answer:
Transdermal patches allow for the slow and controlled release of medications into the bloodstream, maintaining steady plasma levels, which is especially useful when oral administration is not an option due to GI absorption issues or patient's conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Transdermal patches can give medications in a way that they are absorbed slowly, creating a constant, time-released systemic effect. These patches are an alternative route for the administration of drugs, particularly when oral ingestion is not feasible due to absorption issues in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract or due to a patient's inability to take oral medications. By bypassing the GI tract, transdermal patches can maintain steady plasma levels of medication, which is valuable for drugs that need to be administered at a consistent level to be effective.
Employing nanotechnology and controlled-release systems, such as nanoparticulate matrices, allows for the diffusion of drug molecules from the inner matrix to the surface over time. This helps maintain a controlled release, ensuring therapeutic levels are sustained at the site of action. For instance, bioactive peptides that are not absorbed effectively via the GI tract can benefit from transdermal delivery methods to enhance their bioavailability. These methods have been proven to improve solubility, permeability, and provide a targeted approach to overcoming resistance to treatment.