Microarray patches (MAPs) are arrays of microneedles that stick to your skin like a bandage, offering a noninvasive mechanism for drug administration. Several MAPs for prevention and treatment of multiple diseases are currently in the research and development (R&D) pipeline, which have the potential to be easier to administer in resource-poor settings, more convenient for users, and simpler to store and distribute.

This fact sheet outlines what health advocates need to know about MAPs, including how they work, possible advantages and disadvantages of using them, and manufacturing and acceptability barriers they’re likely to encounter when entering the market. This resource is intended to equip communities affected by diseases preventable or treatable with MAPs with skills and context to engage the R&D process to ensure that end products serve the interests of end users.