EXPLORING STUDENT’S KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS OF TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY ROUTES WITH EMPHASIS ON TRANSDERMAL PATCHES: A PROSPECTIVE, OBSERVATIONAL, CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY IN A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING INSTITUTE

Abstract

Background: Drug delivery systems form the backbone of rational pharmacotherapy, directly influencing drug efficacy, safety, and patient compliance. Among various novel drug delivery routes, transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS) have gained prominence due to their ability to provide controlled drug release, bypass first-pass metabolism, and enhance patient adherence. Despite their growing clinical relevance, the extent of knowledge, awareness, and perception regarding transdermal drug delivery among undergraduate medical and dental students remains inadequately explored. Objectives: To assess and compare the knowledge, awareness, and perception regarding transdermal drug delivery routes with emphasis on transdermal patches among MBBS and BDS students in a tertiary care teaching institute, and to identify educational gaps using a validated scoring system. Materials and Methods: A prospective, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted among 254 undergraduate students (183 MBBS and 71 BDS). Data were collected using a pre-validated, self-administered questionnaire comprising four sections: demographic details, general knowledge of drug delivery routes, knowledge and awareness of transdermal patches, and perception with educational needs. Knowledge and awareness were assessed using Sections B and C (maximum score: 15), while perception was evaluated using Section D (maximum score: 5). The total score ranged from 0 to 20 and was interpreted as poor, basic, moderate, or good knowledge and awareness. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Most participants were familiar with conventional drug delivery routes, while awareness of transdermal drug delivery was comparatively lower. MBBS students demonstrated higher mean knowledge and awareness scores than BDS students. Knowledge of drugs administered via transdermal patches was variable, with better recognition of nitroglycerin and nicotine than hormonal preparations. Perception scores indicated a generally positive attitude toward the clinical relevance of transdermal patches. However, confidence in patient counseling was limited, and a strong demand for additional training and curricular emphasis on TDDS was observed. Conclusion: The study reveals moderate overall knowledge and awareness of transdermal drug delivery systems among undergraduate students, with significant scope for improvement, particularly in practical and clinical application aspects. Incorporation of targeted educational interventions, hands-on demonstrations, and enhanced curricular focus on TDDS is recommended to better prepare future healthcare professionals.