Cutaneous blood flow demonstration

One of the earlier studies demonstrating the role of blood flow on percutaneous absorption in humans used comparison dermal concentrations after topical application in vitro and in vivo (Schaefer and Stuttgen, 1978). Perfusion caused by cutaneous microcirculation also affected responses after the topical penetration of the vasodilator methyl nicotinate in humans (Guy et al., 1983). Altered transdermal drug absorption of the vasoactive nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) methyl salicylate (MeSA) has also been attributed to changes in in vivo cutaneous perfusion. Exercise, heat exposure, or both increased MeSA absorption more than three times the control levels in six volunteers (Danon etal., 1986). A later case study reported that skin necrosis and other toxic symptoms occurred when a heating pad was used with a topical MeSA and menthol formulation meant to treat arthritic pain (Heng, 1987). 

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