Daytrana (Methylphenidate Transdermal) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 10, 2012

Daytrana

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Daytrana

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Daytrana™
(day-TRON-ah)
(methylphenidate) Transdermal System

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Daytrana™ (methylphenidate transdermal system) is an adhesive-based matrix transdermal system (patch) that is applied to intact skin. The chemical name for methylphenidate is αphenyl-2-piperidineacetic acid methyl ester. It is a white to off-white powder and is soluble in alcohol, ethyl acetate, and ether. Methylphenidate is practically insoluble in water and petrol ether. Its molecular weight is 233.31. Its empirical formula is C₁₄H₁₉NO₂. The structural formula of methylphenidate is:

Daytrana™ (methylphenidate ) Structural Formula Illustration

Patch Components

Daytrana™ (methylphenidate transdermal) contains methylphenidate in a multipolymeric adhesive. The methylphenidate is dispersed in acrylic adhesive that is dispersed in a silicone adhesive. The composition per unit area of all dosage strengths is identical, and the total dose delivered is dependent on the patch size and wear time.

Four dosage strengths are available:

Nominal Dose Delivered (mg) Over 9 Hours*	Dosage Rate* (mg/hr)	Patch Size (cm²)	Methylphenidate Content per Patch (mg)
10	1.1	12.5	27.5
15	1.6	18.75	41.3
20	2.2	25	55
30	3.3	37.5	82.5
*Nominal in vivo delivery rate in pediatric subjects aged 6-12 when applied to the hip, based on a 9-hour wear period.

The patch consists of three layers, as seen in the figure below (cross-section of the patch).

Proceeding from the outer surface toward the surface adhering to the skin, the layers are (1) a polyester/ethylene vinyl acetate laminate film backing, (2) a proprietary adhesive formulation incorporating Noven Pharmaceuticals, Inc.'s DOT Matrix™ transdermal technology consisting of an acrylic adhesive, a silicone adhesive, and methylphenidate, and (3) a fluoropolymer-coated polyester protective liner which is attached to the adhesive surface and must be removed before the patch can be used.

The active component of the patch is methylphenidate. The remaining components are pharmacologically inactive.

What are the possible side effects of methylphenidate transdermal (Daytrana)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using methylphenidate and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeats;
feeling light-headed, fainting;
increased blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, numbness, seizure);
redness, swelling, itching, or...

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What are the precautions when taking methylphenidate transdermal (Daytrana)?

Before using methylphenidate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: certain mental/mood conditions (e.g., agitation, psychosis), severe anxiety/tension, a certain eye disease (glaucoma), personal or family history of uncontrolled movements/outbursts (motor tics, Tourette's syndrome), seizures, problems with heart structure (e.g., valve problems), history of heart attack or stroke, heart/blood vessel disease (e.g., irregular...

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Last reviewed on RxList: 1/5/2010
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.