3M (NYSE: MMM) today launched an adhesive tape that can be used to secure medical devices to a patient’s skin for up to 21 days.

3M, based in Maplewood, Minn., said its 3M Medical Tape 4576 is flexible, conformable and offers “excellent adhesion to the skin”, making it ideal for devices that require continuous and extended wear inside and outside of healthcare facilities.

“People deserve to live active lives without being bothered by their condition – or a device designed to monitor it –,” said the vice president of 3M’s Medical Solutions Division. Marcello Napol said in a press release. “Adhesives are more than just a material. They have the potential to unlock longer wear times, slimmer device profiles and more. We are delighted to 3M Medical Tape 4576 and what it can offer device developers and proactive real-time health monitoring as a whole.

The new polyester nonwoven tape was developed by a team in the United States and Japan and has been “worked on virtually every hour of the day for a year,” said 3M Scientist A.Udrey Shermanwhom the company has named as one of the leaders in tape development.

“Collaboration is really what made 3M Medical Tape 4576 a reality. … It is this deeply collaborative and thoughtful approach that will fuel future innovations,” Sherman said in the press release.

Learn more about 3M medical tapes and wearable devices in this MDO Contributors Network article by Del Lawson, R&D Manager, Medical Solutions Division.