Applicator and microneedle array patch delivery system

A microarray patch (MAP) and applicator system comprising:

• a microarray patch (MAP) comprising:
• a backing;
• a plurality of microneedles extending from the backing, each of the plurality of microneedles comprising:
• a tip comprising an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) wherein each tip of the plurality of microneedles comprises at least one of a tip strength of at least about 0.4 N and a tip stiffness of at least about 200 N/mm;
• and
• a water-soluble base configured to at least partially dissolve upon contact with a bodily fluid of a subject causing the tip to be released below a skin surface of the subject;
• and
• an applicator configured to:
• maintain the MAP;
• in response to an activation mechanism being activated, release a piston downward into the MAP;
• and
• push, via the piston, the MAP downward onto the skin surface of the subject such that the plurality of microneedles penetrate the skin surface and are delivered to the subject;
• wherein apexes of the plurality of microneedles are delivered to the subject at a depth of at least about 300 μm below the skin surface of the subject and whereby about 30% or less of the API remains on the MAP after removal from the subject.