Iontophoresis Techniques and Applications

What is the primary principle behind iontophoresis?

Iontophoresis can only deliver drugs that have a negative charge.

What is the therapeutic effect timeline expected from iontophoresis treatment?

In iontophoresis, medications like Dexamethasone are used for __________.

Match the following drugs with their indications in iontophoresis:

What is the risk associated with using a current higher than 4 mA in iontophoresis?

Biofeedback is considered an electrical stimulation technique.

How often should iontophoresis treatment typically be done?

An acidic reaction occurs under the __________ electrode during iontophoresis.

What effect does High Voltage Pulsed Current (HVPC) have on wounds?

Iontophoresis

Delivers drugs into the body using direct current (DC) and the principle of like charges repelling.
Dosage ranges from 40-80 ma-min, with treatment time based on current selection.
2 ma takes 20 minutes but carries a lower risk of burns than 4 ma.
Before starting, ensure the patient is not allergic to the medication.
Clean the target area with soap or alcohol.
Set polarity to match the drug's charge.
Saturate the active pad with the ion solution and the dispersive pad with saline.
Place the active pad on the target area and the dispersive pad a width away.
Gradually increase intensity until a well-tolerated current is achieved.
Monitor the patient every 3-5 minutes for skin irritation or burning.
Remove electrodes and inspect skin; redness under the active electrode is expected.
Electrodes might be left on for 12-24 hours in some cases.
Treatment is done every other day, with therapeutic effects expected within 3-5 treatments.
Acidic reaction (HCl acid) under the anode or alkaline reaction (NaOH) under the cathode can cause irritation or burns.
Most electrodes are pH buffered to reduce these risks.
Common medications include Dexamethasone (-) for inflammation and Lidocaine (+) for pain.

High-Voltage Pulsed Current (HVPC)

Uses monophasic pulses of very short duration.
Therapeutic applications are unique due to polarity, primarily used for wound healing and reducing acute edema.
Usually applied monopolarly but can be applied bipolarly.

Biofeedback

Not electrical stimulation but a suitable alternative if electrical stimulation is contraindicated or poorly tolerated.
Indications include muscle relaxation and muscle re-education/strengthening.

This quiz covers the principles and techniques of iontophoresis, a method used for delivering drugs through the skin using electrical current. Topics include dosage, preparation, monitoring, and expected therapeutic effects. Test your knowledge on the precautions and procedures involved in administering iontophoresis.