iontophoresis

noun

ion·​to·​pho·​re·​sis (ˌ)ī-ˌän-tə-fə-ˈrē-səs 

plural iontophoreses (ˌ)ī-ˌän-tə-fə-ˈrē-ˌsēz 

: the introduction of an ionized substance (such as a drug) through intact skin by the application of a direct electric current

iontophoretic

(ˌ)ī-ˌän-tə-fə-ˈre-tik 

adjective

iontophoretically

(ˌ)ī-ˌän-tə-fə-ˈre-ti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of iontophoresis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The other methods each came with limitations, such as being too bulky or less safe, so the researchers opted for chemical delivery through a process called iontophoresis, which moves chemicals and ions through hydrogels and has a low electrical-power requirement. —IEEE Spectrum, 25 Nov. 2024

Lidocaine iontophoresis: During this procedure, lidocaine solution is inserted into the ear canal. —Carley Millhone, Health, 20 Oct. 2024

Tap water iontophoresis: One case report described successful treatment with this procedure, which involves a mild electrical current passed through tap water to temporarily shut off sweat glands. —Michael Menna, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024

Evidence on the effectiveness of iontophoresis is limited. —Carley Millhone, Health, 20 Oct. 2024

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), an iontophoresis device is a machine that generates a low-voltage current. —Cathy Cassata, Health.com, 1 Nov. 2021

If the sweating is concentrated away from armpits, or if a new antiperspirant doesn't solve the issue, some experts will consider electrical iontophoresis treatments on hands, feet or facial regions to stem sweating. —Zee Krstic, Good Housekeeping, 6 Sep. 2021

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Iontophorese, from ionto-, combining form representing Ion ion (borrowed from Greek iont-, iṓn, present participle of iénai "to go") + -o- -o- + -phorese -phoresis — more at issue entry 1

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

iontophoresis

noun

ion·​to·​pho·​re·​sis (ˌ)ī-ˌänt-ə-fə-ˈrē-səs 

plural iontophoreses -ˌsēz 

: the introduction of an ionized substance (as a drug) through intact skin by the application of a direct electric current

iontophorese

-ˈrēs 

transitive verb

iontophoresed; iontophoresing

iontophoretic

-ˈret-ik 

adjective

iontophoretically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb