An in vitro release testing method and system for testing the ability of formulations to deliver agents across a barrier membrane is disclosed. The method may comprise steps of providing a dosage of a semi-solid formulation containing the bioactive agent, a receptor solution, and a barrier membrane to separate the semi-solid formulation and the receptor solution. The receptor solution may be a biphasic solution or an immiscible solution. The semi-solid formulation may be contacted with one side of the barrier membrane and the receptor solution with the other side of the barrier membrane for a time sufficient to produce penetration of the barrier membrane by the semi-solid formulation. The receptor solution may be sampled and assayed to determine the concentration of the bioactive agent in the receptor solution.