FDA Approves ADHD Skin Patch

Filed in archive Drugs, Vaccines and Therapeutics on April 18, 2006

The first of its kind to be approved by the US FDA, the Daytrana Patch is a skin patch containing a generic version of Ritalin, a drug for treating children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Daytrana is a once-daily patch for children ages 6 to 12 that is supposed to be applied early in the morning and removed nine hours later. It should be worn on the hip, alternating left and right sides every day, and comes in four strengths.

There have been concerns raised regarding safety, Dosage and the possibility of abuse, considering that the active ingredient, methylphenidate, is one of the most commonly abused drugs among young people. FDA officials say, however, the patch passed clinical trials, and the manufacturers, Shire Pharmaceuticals Group PLC and Noven Pharmaceuticals Inc., are going to monitor possible misuse. They also emphasize that the patch should be used as a part of a comprehensive ADHD treatment program which includes educational and social aspects.

Washington Post has more about the ADHD patch.