Abstract: The present invention includes methods and devices for providing sustained in-vivo release of an active agent to a subject. In some aspects, such release may be achieved by reacting an active agent in-vivo with a depot forming agent in order to form a sustained release active agent depot inside the subject. The depot can then release the active agent over a sustained period of time.

Abstract: The present invention includes methods and devices for providing sustained in-vivo release of an active agent to a subject. In some aspects, such release may be achieved by reacting an active agent in-vivo with a depot forming agent in order to form a sustained release active agent depot inside the subject. The depot can then release the active agent over a sustained period of time.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for iontophoretically transporting a compound through a localized region of an individual's body tissue. The device comprises first and second iontophoretic electrodes, a reference electrode, a current source, and a monitoring means. The first electrode is placed in ion-conducting relation with the localized region to allow iontophoretic transport of a compound therethrough. The second and transport electrodes are each placed in contact with the individual's body tissue, and all electrodes are spaced apart from each other. The current source is electrically connected to the first and second electrodes and applies a current to the localized region of body tissue to effect iontophoretic transport. The monitoring means monitors the electrical resistance of the localized region by measuring any voltage difference between the reference electrode and the first and/or second electrodes.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for iontophoretically transporting a compound through a localized region of an individual's body tissue. The device comprises first and second iontophoretic electrodes, a reference electrode, a current source, and a monitoring means. The first electrode is placed in ion-conducting relation with the localized region to allow iontophoretic transport of a compound therethrough. The second and transport electrodes are each placed in contact with the individual's body tissue, and all electrodes are spaced apart from each other. The current source is electrically connected to the first and second electrodes and applies a current to the localized region of body tissue to effect iontophoretic transport. The monitoring means monitors the electrical resistance of the localized region by measuring any voltage difference between the reference electrode and the first and/or second electrodes. Methods for using a reference electrode to monitor and control iontophoresis are also provided.

Abstract: An iontophoretic method for transporting compounds of interest across a body tissue is provided. The method can be used to extract analytes or deliver drugs. The method utilizes a polyelectrolyte and provides for the maintenance of a substantially constant flux across a localized region of the tissue through which transport occurs, thereby allowing a compound of interest to be transported across the tissue in a controlled and predictable manner. In addition, the presence of the polyclectrolyte reduces the lag-time of molecular transport through the body tissue.