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How a suction cup delivers medications to the bloodstream

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a suction cup that allows medications to be absorbed through the mucosal lining of the cheeks. This new approach could spare millions of patients the pain and fear associated with injections.

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The suction cup contains active ingredients and can be pressed onto the lining of the check with two fingers. (Graphic: Luo Z et al. 2023, edited)

In brief

  • The suction cup developed by ETH researchers allows for the painless administration of medications that previously could only be injected.
  • It stretches the mucosal lining of the cheek and, in combination with a penetration-​promoting agent, makes this barrier more permeable to medications.
  • The researchers now want to bring their new delivery system to market.

ETH News