Iontophoresis

Question 1

What is iontophoresis

Answer 1

• Iontophoresis is a method in which drugs can be administered through the body using an electric current
• Transdermal
• Electric current pushes ionized form of medication through the skin

Question 2

When can a Physical Therapist use Iontophoresis

Answer 2

• when a physician prescribes an analgesic or anti-inflammatory medication
• iontophoresis is a method that enhances the movement of the prescribed medication

Question 3

How is intophoreiss used in PT

Answer 3

• treatment pain and inflammation by sending medications transdermally into muscles, tendon, or bursa tissues

Question 4

• Ex of meds that can be administered via iontophoresis

Answer 4

• acetic acid: increase solubility of calcium deposits
• dexamethasone: anti-inflammatory
• iodine: antibiotic
• magnesium sulfate: muscle relaxant

Question 5

Process of iontophoresis

Answer 5

• Depending on the charge of the medication will determine the charge that theIontophoresis device is set.
• Negative Charges Repel Negative Charges and same for Positive Charges
• To push a negatively charged medication deeper into a tissue, apply the medication to the negative electrode to push the medication into the tissue
• Iontophoresis Treatment lasts for 10-20 minutes
• Dependent on amount of medication
• Patient may experience slight tingling equivalent to a small bee stingsensation due to the electric current

Question 6

Pros of Iontophoresis

Answer 6

• Non-invasive
• Ability to be localized
• Limited to no systemic effect

Question 7

Cons of iontophoresis

Answer 7

• Access to equipment
• Skin irritation
• Time consuming 20-40 minute treatments
• Sensitive to allergies

Question 8

Precautions

Answer 8

• Skin irritation
• Allergic rxn
• Open wounds
• Sensory disorders

Question 9

Contraindications

Answer 9

• Pacemaker
• Cardiac issues
• Pregnancy
• Metal implants
• Cancer (Directly over)
• Impaired circulation

Question 10

Side effects of iontophoresis

Answer 10

• Slight Tingling Sensation upon application of Iontophoresis
• Allergic rxn
• Medicine and solutions used can cause reactions in certain individuals
• Dry skin
• Skin irritation
• Blisters and burns - Rare but can occur