Cutaneous Delivery Systems/Patches

Cutaneous delivery systems were first used in ancient China where medicated plasters were applied to the skin and left to dry. The medication is administered via a patch that is adhered to the patient's skin, and the medication is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. Common uses of the transdermal patch: nicotine patch, opioids, hormones, nitroglycerin patches, motion sickness, hypertension, antidepressants, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and alzheimer's treatment. The transdermal patch consists of three basic layers: outer layer or backing, middle layer, and inner layer. The adhesive layer is able to release vapor, such as essential oils for treatment of nasal congestion. Vapor patches are also used as sleep aids and smoking cessation. Any drug used in transdermal patches can have adverse effects similar to effects from other routes of administration. Drug interactions with other medications can also occur.