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

Drugs
|June 23, 2006
PubMed

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.

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