Abstract: Devices for the controlled release of an active agent to the skin or mucosa of a host are disclosed, which devices are laminates of a cellular foam layer having a first surface and a second surface, which foam layer has an active agent incorporated therein; a backing layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface is affixed to the second surface of the foam layer so that the active agent cannot permeate from the second surface of the foam layer through the outer surface of the backing layer; and means for affixing the laminate to the skin or mucosa of the host so that the active agent is capable of being continuously released from the first surface of the foam layer thereto. Methods for assembling the laminate devices are also disclosed, as are methods in which the foam layer is formed from a prepolymer solution on the backing layer. Methods are also disclosed for the polymerization of cellular urethane foams having active agents uniformly dispersed therethrough.

Abstract: A transdermal nitroglycerin patch exhibiting superior nitroglycerin skin penetrating characteristics comprising a percutaneous penetration enhancer is disclosed, wherein the penetration enhancer may be one or more of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, oleic acid, oleyl butanediol, linoleic acid, isopropyl linoleate, azone and alcohol. Also disclosed is a transdermal patch design comprising two concentric rings, wherein the concentrations of nitroglycerin and the permeability enhancer are varied.

Abstract: Solvent systems comprising oleic acid, linear alcohol lactate and either dipropylene glycol or N-methyl-2-pyrrolidine useful for preparing adhesive matrix and reservoir-type transdermal delivery devices for estradiol are disclosed.

Abstract: A transdermal nicotine patch comprising an antipruritic to counteract pruritis observed with the transdermal administration of nicotine is disclosed. The patch can be any conventional patch type, e.g., reservoir, adhesive or polymeric matrix.