April 11, 2006 -- Skin Patch Approved for ADHD

The federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) April 6 approved the first transdermal (skin) patch for treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children six to 12 years of age. The patch, named Daytrana, contains the drug methylphenidate, a central nervous system stimulant, and is to be applied once daily to a child’s hip and worn for nine hours. The patch is manufactured by Noven Pharmaceuticals Inc., and will be available by prescription. The FDA cautions that Daytrana should not be used if a child has significant anxiety, tension, or agitation, since methylphenidate may make these conditions worse. Also, if the patch is worn longer than the recommended nine hours, side effects such as insomnia may occur with greater frequency. An FDA press release announcing approval of the skin patch notes that Daytrana "is indicated as an integral part of a total treatment program for ADHD that may include other measures such as psychological and social education for patients."