Transdermal Patches

Definition

Transdermal patches are a type of drug delivery system that allows medication to be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. These patches are designed to provide a controlled, continuous release of the drug over an extended period, making them a convenient and effective option for various medical treatments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transdermal patches are designed to deliver a controlled and consistent dose of medication over an extended period, typically ranging from several hours to several days.
2. The active ingredient in a transdermal patch is formulated to permeate the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin, and reach the systemic circulation.
3. Transdermal patches are commonly used for the delivery of medications such as nicotine, hormones, pain relievers, and motion sickness treatments.
4. The skin's permeability can be enhanced through the use of various penetration enhancers, such as chemical agents or physical techniques, to improve the absorption of the drug.
5. Transdermal patches offer several advantages over other routes of administration, including improved patient compliance, reduced gastrointestinal side effects, and the ability to bypass first-pass metabolism in the liver.

Review Questions

• Explain how transdermal patches relate to the nursing process and drug administration.
  • Transdermal patches are a unique drug delivery method that requires specific considerations during the nursing process. Nurses must assess the patient's skin condition and choose an appropriate application site, ensure proper application and adherence of the patch, monitor for any skin irritation or other adverse effects, and educate the patient on the proper use and handling of the transdermal patch. Additionally, nurses must be aware of the pharmacokinetic properties of the drug delivered through the transdermal route, such as its rate of absorption and onset of action, to effectively monitor the patient's response and adjust the therapy as needed.
• Describe the role of transdermal patches in the context of androgen and anabolic steroid therapies.
  • Transdermal patches can be used to deliver androgens, such as testosterone, for the treatment of conditions like hypogonadism or androgen deficiency. These patches allow for a controlled, continuous release of the androgen, which can help maintain stable blood levels and minimize the fluctuations associated with other administration routes. In the context of anabolic steroid therapies, transdermal patches may be used to deliver anabolic-androgenic steroids, which can have applications in the management of certain medical conditions or for performance enhancement purposes. However, the use of anabolic steroids is highly regulated and may have significant side effects, requiring close monitoring and supervision by healthcare providers.
• Analyze the use of transdermal patches in feminizing hormonal therapy and the potential advantages they offer compared to other administration routes.
  • Transdermal patches can be used to deliver feminizing hormones, such as estrogens and anti-androgens, as part of gender-affirming hormone therapy for individuals undergoing transition. The transdermal route allows for a more consistent and controlled delivery of these hormones, which can help minimize the fluctuations in hormone levels and associated side effects that may be seen with other administration methods, such as oral or intramuscular injections. Additionally, the transdermal delivery of feminizing hormones can be advantageous by bypassing the first-pass metabolism in the liver, potentially reducing the risk of certain adverse effects. This can contribute to a more stable and effective feminizing hormonal therapy, which is an important aspect of comprehensive gender-affirming care.

Related terms

Percutaneous Absorption: The process by which a drug or other substance is able to penetrate through the skin and enter the systemic circulation.

Stratum Corneum: The outermost layer of the skin that acts as the primary barrier to the absorption of drugs and other substances.

Transdermal Drug Delivery: The administration of drugs through the skin to achieve a therapeutic effect, often with the goal of improving patient compliance and reducing side effects.