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The amount of current is generally the most important factor in determining the rate of iontophoresis. It is generally more effective to perform iontophoresis with a low current over a longer period than to use a high current over a short period. Additional factors that affect the effectiveness of iontophoresis includes the specific drug and its concentration, the voltage, the skin pH and the electrical resistance of the skin.
The permeability of the skin increases when the electrical charge is applied, which increases the migration of the drug into the skin. The drug usually enters through the hair follicles and sweat glands, although some of the drug enters the skin between the cells. The amount of drug that enters the skin by going through the skin cells is minimal. -
Iontophoresis is commonly used to treat hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and it can also deliver a variety of anti-inflammatory medication. Iontophoresis can also be used to diagnose conditions, such as bursitis and plantar fasciitis.
Chemical compounds may also be removed through the skin in a process known as "reverse iontophoresis." This technique uses an electrical charge to attract molecules from the skin and is especially common in blood glucose meters.
