Painless skin patch to deliver the flu medicine zanamivir
Official title: Novel, Self-Applied MicroArray Patch (MAP) of Zanamivir for Treatment of the Flu
Funded at Tsrl, INC. · NIH-11171506 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A small, self-applied skin patch delivers the flu drug zanamivir to people with influenza, especially those who can't use inhaled medicines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tsrl, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $999,975 |
| NIH project number | 5R44AI179506-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11171506 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with confirmed or suspected influenza or those at high risk of complications who cannot use inhaled antiviral therapies would be the most likely candidates.
✕Less likely to help
People without the flu, those who can take existing oral or inhaled antivirals without issue, and individuals with skin conditions or allergies to patch materials may not benefit.
What this research studies
Researchers are developing a tiny microarray patch (MAP) with microscopic projections that lets zanamivir pass through the skin into the bloodstream. The patch is designed for self-application so people can get the medicine without inhaling it or getting injections. The team will formulate the drug for the patch, test how well it releases and is absorbed through skin in lab and preclinical work, and refine dose and safety before moving toward human testing. The goal is an easy-to-use option for treating flu, including for older adults and people with lung problems who cannot use inhalers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the patch could make an effective flu antiviral easier to use for people who cannot inhale medicines and could broaden access during seasonal outbreaks or pandemics.
How similar studies have gone: Microneedle and transdermal patches have shown promise for vaccines and some drugs, but using a zanamivir MAP for flu treatment is relatively novel and not yet widely tested in patients.
Where this research is happening
-
Tsrl, INC.
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lipka, Elke — Tsrl, INC.
- Study coordinator: Lipka, Elke
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.