- Drug Information: Methylphenidate Transdermal System
- Warning
- Uses of Methylphenidate Transdermal System
- What to Tell Your Doctor Before Taking Methylphenidate Transdermal System
- Things to Know or Do While Taking Methylphenidate Transdermal System
- How to Take Methylphenidate Transdermal System
- Possible Side Effects of Methylphenidate Transdermal System
- Storage and Disposal of Methylphenidate Transdermal System
- Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
Drug Information: Methylphenidate Transdermal System
Warning
Use of methylphenidate transdermal system carries a risk of abuse and misuse. It should only be used as directed by a doctor. Patients should inform their doctor if they have a history of drug or alcohol abuse or addiction.
Uses of Methylphenidate Transdermal System
Methylphenidate transdermal system is primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It may also be prescribed for other conditions, as determined by a doctor.
What to Tell Your Doctor Before Taking Methylphenidate Transdermal System
Prior to taking methylphenidate transdermal system, patients should inform their doctor if they have any allergies to methylphenidate or any other components of the medication. Patients should also disclose any health conditions they have, including glaucoma, anxiety, overactive thyroid, heart problems, or Tourette’s syndrome. Patients who have taken certain medications for depression or Parkinson’s disease in the past 14 days should also inform their doctor.
Things to Know or Do While Taking Methylphenidate Transdermal System
Patients taking methylphenidate transdermal system should inform all healthcare providers of their medication use. They should avoid driving or performing tasks that require alertness until they know how the medication affects them. Patients should also be aware of potential side effects, such as heart attacks, strokes, and sudden death. They should have regular heart tests and monitor their blood pressure and heart rate as directed by their doctor. Patients should also avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
How to Take Methylphenidate Transdermal System
Patients should use methylphenidate transdermal system as directed by their doctor. They should not use patches that are cut or damaged. The patch should be applied to clean, dry, healthy skin on the hip and changed every 9 hours or as directed by the doctor. Patients should avoid exposing the patch to water and should not put it on cuts, scrapes, eczema, or damaged skin. If the patch falls off, patients should apply a new one to a different area on the same hip. Patients who have been taking methylphenidate transdermal system for a long time may develop tolerance and require higher doses to achieve the same effect.
Possible Side Effects of Methylphenidate Transdermal System
Common side effects of methylphenidate transdermal system include dizziness, sleepiness, dry mouth, headache, upset stomach, weight loss, nervousness, and trouble sleeping. Patients should contact their doctor immediately if they experience signs of an allergic reaction, high blood pressure, liver problems, joint pain, seizures, shakiness, trouble controlling body movements, sweating, restlessness, numbness or pain in the hands or feet, or changes in skin color or sex interest. Patients should also seek medical attention if they experience painful erections lasting longer than 4 hours or new or worsening behavior or mood changes.
Storage and Disposal of Methylphenidate Transdermal System
Methylphenidate transdermal system should be stored at room temperature and protected from light. Patients should keep patches in the pouch and use them within 2 months of opening the tray. After removing a patch, patients should fold the sticky sides together and dispose of it where children and pets cannot access it. Unused or expired medication should be thrown away according to the instructions of a pharmacist or local drug take-back program.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
Patients should not share their medication with others or take someone else’s medication. They should read the medication guide provided with their prescription and contact their doctor or pharmacist with any questions or concerns. In the event of an overdose, patients should contact a poison control center or seek medical attention immediately.
