Abstract: A device (3) comprising a sheet member (6) having a plurality of microprotrusions (4) for penetrating the skin and a rigid support (15) contacting and extending across the sheet member (6) for transmitting an applied force evenly across the length and width of the sheet member (6) to reproducibly and reliably penetrate the skin with the microprotrusions (4).

Abstract: Transdermal compositions, devices, and methods for the administration of a drug at reduced skin irritation levels are disclosed. More particularly, this invention relates to novel methods, compositions, and devices for the reduction or elimination of irritation or sensitization caused by an irritating or sensitizing drug when it is delivered transdermally. According to a preferred embodiment, transdermal administration of a drug salt of a non-zwitterionic drug is disclosed wherein the drug salt comprises a combination of surface activity and a low octanol-water partition coefficient. Such drug salts have been found to reduce irritation or sensitization to the drug being delivered while achieving therapeutically effective transdermal fluxes.

Abstract: An agent detecting device comprising a plate (6) having a plurality of microprotrusions (4) for piercing the skin of a patient. Each of the microprotrusions (4) having an electrode (14, 16 and 18) thereon for detecting the presence of an agent in the patient's interstitial fluid.

Abstract: A device and method are provided for reducing or preventing skin sensitization in electrotransport drug delivery. The method involves co-administration of a countersensitizing agent, comprising cis-urocanic acid or an analog thereof, with the drug delivered via electrotransport. Novel drug reservoirs and electrotransport drug delivery systems, formulated with a countersensitizing agent as described herein, are provided as well.

Abstract: This invention pertains to a method of imaging atherosclerotic plaque using radiolabeled monoclonal antibodies that are specific for activated platelets or activated endothelial cells. The method is capable of determining the site of endothelial injury. This method involves the administration of a platelet-specific labeled monoclonal antibody or antibody fragment to a patient. The antibody is allowed to accumulate at the plaque site and the plaque is then scanned with a photoscanner. The detected signals are then converted into an image of the plaque.

Abstract: Method using technetium-99m imaging agents for the study, detection or diagnosis of tumors. The imaging agents comprise a complex of technetium-99m and glucarate.