The invention provides a device for iontophoretically transporting a
compound through a localized region of an individual's body tissue. The
device comprises first and second iontophoretic electrodes, a reference
electrode, a current source, and a monitoring means. The first electrode
is placed in ion-conducting relation with the localized region to allow
iontophoretic transport of a compound therethrough. The second and
transport electrodes are each placed in contact with the individual's body
tissue, and all electrodes are spaced apart from each other. The current
source is electrically connected to the first and second electrodes and
applies a current to the localized region of body tissue to effect
iontophoretic transport. The monitoring means monitors the electrical
resistance of the localized region by measuring any voltage difference
between the reference electrode and the first and/or second electrodes.
Methods for using a reference electrode to monitor and control
iontophoresis are also provided.
