Related Experiment Videos
Use of transdermal nicotine systems in a possible suicide attempt
N Montalto1, C C Brackett, T Sobol
1Department of Family Medicine, Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus.
Background:
Transdermal drug delivery systems, a relatively recent development, are well accepted by physicians and patients because of reliability and ease of administration. The patch reservoirs, however, contain large quantities of drug, and the potential for considerable toxicity exists if they are used incorrectly. A case is presented of an apparent suicide attempt that involved the use of nicotine transdermal patches.
Methods:
This case report involved a patient seen in the emergency department by one of the authors. Data were obtained from the patient's medical record while maintaining confidentiality.
Results:
The drug overdose was a potentially serious one. The patient recovered fully after an uneventful hospital course.
Conclusions:
Transdermal drug delivery systems now deliver many drugs, several of which are quite potent. Intentional or unintentional misuse of the systems can result in toxicity. The physician and pharmacist should carefully instruct each patient in the appropriate use and handling of transdermal drug delivery systems.