transcutánea

Transcutánea is a term derived from Latin, meaning "across the skin" or "through the skin." It describes a method of administration or treatment that bypasses the digestive system and is applied directly to or absorbed through the skin. This approach is utilized in various medical and therapeutic contexts.

One common application of transcutánea administration is in the delivery of medications. Transdermal patches, for instance, release drugs slowly and steadily into the bloodstream through the skin, providing a continuous therapeutic effect. Examples include nicotine patches for smoking cessation, hormone replacement therapy patches, and pain relief patches containing opioids or local anesthetics. This method can offer advantages over oral medications by avoiding first-pass metabolism in the liver and reducing gastrointestinal side effects.

Beyond medication delivery, the term transcutánea can also refer to therapeutic techniques that involve skin penetration. Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. While not strictly administering a substance, the needle insertion is a transcutánea procedure. Similarly, certain forms of physical therapy or massage may involve techniques applied transcutáneamente to address muscle tension or promote circulation. The effectiveness and mechanisms of these transcutánea therapies are subjects of ongoing research and clinical study.