Generic name: MethylphenidateBrand names: Daytrana
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.
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.
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.
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.
Daytrana should not be used if the child has:
In addition, Daytrana should not be combined with antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.