Prototype of a biopolymer-based transdermal film with bacterial cellulose membrane and microneedles for methotrexate administration

•Drug incorporation MTX integrated into BC/MN, indicating potential for drug delivery.•Sustained release of MTX with potential for controlled drug delivery.•Microneedles effectively penetrate simulated barriers.•BC/MTX/MN with high cellular viability potential for biomedical applications.•Formation of micropores that facilitate the transport of MTX to the epidermis. This report presents a transdermal methotrexate (MTX) delivery system prototype using a bacterial cellulose (BC) matrix with microneedles (MN). The MTX-loaded BC layer (BC/MTX) was incorporated in microneedles. The BC/MTX/MN system was evaluated for structure, mechanical properties, cytotoxicity and in vitro drug release. After 24 h, 73% of MTX was released from BC. Cytotoxicity results showed 123% cell viability for BC and 111% for BC/MTX. These findings suggest the potential of the delivery system for releasing MTX in the treatment of dermatological diseases.