Abstract: An applicator-based transdermal drug delivery system (ABTDS) for administration of drugs to a patient to treat ailments in combination with a wide range of topical formulation classes including but not limited to creams, foams, gels, lotions, and ointments is described herein. The transdermal drug delivery system utilizes an applicator that can be in various disk-like shapes and sizes, and that contain the topical formulation in a fixed area, and is applied over the skin of the patient to ensure accurate drug delivery and protect the drug from being rubbed away. Additional features of the applicator include numerous blunt spikes present on its surface that are designed to enhance rate of drug delivery.