Transdermal Patch Medications: A Complete Guide for Pharmacy Techs
Learn about common transdermal patches, proper application techniques, disposal requirements, and key counseling points for patients.
Transdermal Drug Delivery Basics
Transdermal patches deliver medication through the skin into the bloodstream at a controlled rate. Pharmacy technicians must understand patch medications for accurate dispensing and patient safety. This is a regularly tested topic on the PTCB exam.
Commonly Dispensed Transdermal Patches
Pain Management
Fentanyl (Duragesic) patches are Schedule II controlled substances available in 12, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mcg/hr strengths. They are replaced every 72 hours and require special disposal procedures due to residual drug content.
Hormone Replacement
Estradiol patches (Vivelle-Dot, Climara) are used for menopausal symptoms. Application sites should be rotated and patches should be applied to clean, dry, non-irritated skin on the trunk.
Other Common Patches
- Nicotine (Nicoderm CQ): Smoking cessation, available OTC in 7, 14, and 21 mg strengths
- Clonidine (Catapres-TTS): Hypertension management, replaced weekly
- Rivastigmine (Exelon): Dementia treatment, applied once daily
- Scopolamine (Transderm Scop): Motion sickness prevention, placed behind the ear
Key Counseling and Safety Points
Patients should avoid exposing patches to external heat sources such as heating pads, saunas, or hot tubs, as heat increases drug absorption and can cause overdose. This is especially dangerous with fentanyl patches.
Disposal Requirements
Used fentanyl patches must be folded sticky sides together and flushed per FDA guidelines, or returned through a drug take-back program. Residual fentanyl in used patches poses a serious risk to children and pets.
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