Daytrana

Generic name: MethylphenidateBrand names: Daytrana

Why is Daytrana prescribed?

Daytrana is a skin patch that contains the stimulant methylphenidate. It is prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children 6 years and older. It should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes other measures such as counseling and educational support.

The Daytrana patch provides a continuous release of medication. After the patch is applied, the medication flows through the skin and into the bloodstream. The patch is usually worn during the day for about 9 hours.

Most important fact about Daytrana

Tell the doctor if your child or a family member has any heart conditions, including structural abnormalities. Also, be sure to inform the doctor immediately if your child develops symptoms that suggest heart problems, such as chest pain or fainting.

How should you take Daytrana?

Apply Daytrana patches to a clean, dry area on the hip. Press and hold the patch firmly to the skin with the palm of your hand for 30 seconds. Alternate hips each day, and make sure there is no redness or areas of irritation where the patch is being applied.

Apply the patch in the morning, 2 hours before an effect is needed, and remove the patch after the child has worn it for 9 hours. If overstimulation or other side effects occur, check with your doctor. The patch may need to be removed earlier in the day.

• If you miss a dose...If you forget to apply Daytrana at the correct time, apply it as soon as you remember. Remove the patch at the normally scheduled time, even if it has been less than 9 hours, to avoid side effects later in the day.

• Storage instructions...Store at room temperature. Keep each patch in its original protective pouch until you are ready to apply it.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Daytrana.

• Side effects of Daytrana may include:Decreased appetite, inflammation of the nasal passages, irritation at site of application (such as redness or itching), nasal congestion, nausea, sadness/crying, sleeplessness, twitching, vomiting, weight loss

• Other side effects of methylphenidate may include:Allergic reactions, dizziness, drowsiness, fever, headache, increased blood pressure, nervousness, psychosis (abnormal thinking or hallucinations)

Why should Daytrana not be prescribed?

Daytrana should not be used if the child has:

• Anxiety, tension, or agitation, since methylphenidate may make these conditions worse.
• Allergies to methylphenidate or any other ingredients in Daytrana.
• Glaucoma, an eye disease.
• Motion or verbal tics, Tourette's syndrome, or a family history of Tourette's syndrome.

In addition, Daytrana should not be combined with antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI.

Special warnings about Daytrana

Do not apply heating pads or other external sources of heat to the patch. Also, avoid touching the sticky part of the patch.

Although rare, Daytrana could cause an allergic reaction. If you suspect the patch is causing skin irritation or a rash, contact your doctor.

Tell the doctor if your child develops blurred vision while taking Daytrana. This could be a sign of a serious problem.

Be sure to inform the doctor about your child's complete medical history, especially if the child has ever had any of the following: depression, bipolar disorder, aggressive behavior or hostility, heart problems, high blood pressure, vision problems, a history of alcohol or drug abuse, motion tics (such as repeated twitching) or verbal tics (such as repeated sounds or words), Tourette's syndrome, seizures, or abnormal brain waves as shown on an EEG. Also tell the doctor if your child has ever had hallucinations (such as hearing voices or seeing abnormal visions) or has been diagnosed with psychosis.

It's also important to tell the doctor if any of the child's family members has a heart condition, motion or verbal tics, or Tourette's syndrome.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Daytrana

Before using Daytrana, tell the doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications your child is taking. If Daytrana is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Daytrana with the following:

AntidepressantsBlood pressure medicationsBlood-thinning drugs such as warfarinClonidineOver-the-counter medications for colds, allergies, or a stuffy noseSeizure medications

In addition, Daytrana should not be combined with antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

If your child is sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about the effects of Daytrana. It is possible for methylphenidate to pass into breast milk.

Recommended dosage for Daytrana

CHILDREN 6 YEARS AND OLDER

The Daytrana patch should be applied to the skin once a day, generally for a 9-hour period. If side effects occur, the doctor may have your child wear the patch for a shorter period of time.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. Call your doctor immediately if your child uses more than the prescribed amount of Daytrana, or if you suspect your child may have symptoms of an overdose.

• Symptoms of Daytrana overdose may include:Agitation, confusion, convulsions, dry eyes, dry mouth, fever, flushing, hallucinations, headache, heart problems, muscle twitching, tremors