Methylphenidate transdermal system: In attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children
Vanessa R Anderson1, Lesley J Scott
1Adis International Limited, Auckland, New Zealand. demail@adis.co.nz
Insights
The methylphenidate transdermal system (MTS) patch effectively treats attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. This ADHD treatment offers sustained drug absorption and significant symptom improvement with generally mild side effects.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Pediatrics
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder in children.
- Methylphenidate transdermal system (MTS) offers a sustained-release alternative to oral methylphenidate (MPH).
- MPH is a central nervous system stimulant affecting dopamine and noradrenaline pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of the methylphenidate transdermal system (MTS) in pediatric patients with ADHD.
- To assess the pharmacokinetic profile of MPH delivered via the MTS patch.
- To compare the effectiveness of MTS patches against placebo in managing ADHD symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Utilized controlled trials involving children aged 6-12 years diagnosed with ADHD.
- Administered MTS patches releasing MPH doses of 10-30 mg over a 9-hour period.
- Monitored ADHD symptom improvement and recorded adverse events.
Main Results:
- MTS patches demonstrated significantly greater improvements in ADHD symptoms compared to placebo.
- Mean peak plasma concentrations of d-MPH were reached approximately 8 hours post-application.
- Adverse events were comparable to oral MPH and predominantly mild to moderate in intensity.
Conclusions:
- The methylphenidate transdermal system (MTS) is an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for pediatric ADHD.
- Sustained drug absorption via MTS provides consistent therapeutic levels for ADHD management.
- MTS offers a viable alternative for children requiring continuous MPH delivery for ADHD symptom control.
Abstract:
The methylphenidate transdermal system (MTS) patch is approved by the US FDA for use in children aged 6-12 years with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This delivery system permits sustained absorption of the drug through the skin and into the bloodstream. Methylphenidate (MPH) is a CNS agent thought to act on dopamine and noradrenaline (norepinephrine) pathways and thereby blocks the reuptake of these neurotransmitters into the presynaptic neuron. In children with ADHD, MTS patches releasing MPH doses of 10-30 mg over a 9-hour period (12.5-37.5 cm2 patch size) is steadily absorbed, with mean peak plasma concentrations of d-MPH (20-46.5 ng/mL) reached in approximately 8 hours. In well controlled trials in children with ADHD, patients administered MTS patches releasing MPH 10-30 mg over approximately 9 hours showed significantly greater improvements in their ADHD symptoms than placebo recipients. MTS patches are generally well tolerated in paediatric patients with ADHD, with treatment-emergent events being similar in nature to those reported with oral MPH. The majority of adverse events were mild to moderate in intensity.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems
Oral Drug Delivery Systems: Continuous-Release Systems
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids
Adrenergic Agonists: Mixed-Action Agents
Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine lack a catecholamine group, making them less susceptible to degradation by metabolic enzymes. They have increased oral bioavailability and lipophilicity, resulting in a longer duration of action. Their response is reduced by...
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Classification


