Daytrana

(methylphenidate) 

 

 

 

 Full Prescribing Information 

 DailyMed Drug Information 

 

 

 

 

 Forms/Strengths 

 

  Patch: 10 mg/9 hours, 15 mg/9 hours, 20 mg/9 hours, 30 mg/9 hours 

 

 

 Dosing 

 

 Age: ≥ 6 y/o 

 Onset: Approximately 2 hours after application 

 Duration: 9-hour wear time; continuous release for 9-12 hours 

 Considerations: Apply the patch to the hip area (alternating sites) 2 hours before the effect is needed. The patch may be removed earlier if shorter duration is desired or if late-day side effects occur. Monitor for skin rash or sensitivity. Discard patches appropriately. 

 Initial Dose: 10 mg patch applied daily 

 Titration: 5 mg every 3 - 7 days 

 Max Dose: 30 mg/day 

 

 

 Quick Facts 

 

 Blocks dopamine/norepinephrine reuptake; improves focus and attention 

 Transdermal patch delivers controlled methylphenidate absorption; bypasses gastrointestinal metabolism 

 Apply to a clean, dry, non-irritated area on the hip 

 Avoid exposure to external heat sources 

 Monitor for skin reactions and psychiatric symptoms 

 Common side effects: skin irritation, decreased appetite, insomnia, headache 

 

 

 Indications 

 

   ADHD (ICD-10: F90.0) 

 

 

 Off-Label Uses 

 

  N/A 

 

 

 How to Take 

 

 Apply the patch once daily in the morning to clean, dry skin. 

 Preferred application sites: hip area (alternating sides daily) . 

 Press firmly for 30 seconds to ensure proper adhesion. 

 Wear the patch for 9 hours unless otherwise directed. 

 Avoid cutting the patch , as this may alter drug release. 

 Dispose of used patches by folding them in half and flushing or placing in a secure disposal container. 

 

 

 Side Effects 

 

   Common: Decreased appetite, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, tics, affect lability, anorexia. 

 Serious: Cardiac issues, increased blood pressure, psychiatric reactions, seizures, priapism, peripheral vasculopathy, chemical leukoderma, contact sensitization 

 

 

 Monitoring / Labs 

 

 Cardiovascular : Baseline and routine monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure. 

 Growth in Pediatrics : Regular monitoring of height and weight to detect growth suppression. 

 Psychiatric Symptoms : Observe for mood changes, anxiety, or psychosis. 

 Abuse Potential : Monitor for misuse or diversion. 

 

 

 Education 

 

 

 When to Call the Doctor: 

 

 Severe mood changes, aggression, or suicidal thoughts . 

 Chest pain, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath ( cardiovascular concerns ). 

 Uncontrolled movements, tics, or worsening anxiety. 

 Signs of skin reactions (severe redness, swelling, blistering). 

 Numbness, coldness, or color changes in fingers or toes ( circulatory issues ). 

 Unexplained weight loss or delayed growth in pediatric patients . 

 

 

 

 Safety Tips: 

 

 Monitor blood pressure and heart rate , especially in patients with cardiovascular risk. 

 Use caution in patients with anxiety, bipolar disorder, or psychosis , as symptoms may worsen. 

 Avoid heat exposure (e.g., hot showers, heating pads, strenuous exercise) as it may increase drug absorption. 

 Ensure adequate hydration and nutrition , as appetite suppression is common. 

 If patch falls off , replace with a new one but remove at the usual time . 

 

 

 

 Parent Tips for Pediatric Patients: 

 

 Monitor for skin irritation ; rotate application sites to prevent reactions. 

 Encourage a nutrient-dense diet to counteract appetite suppression. 

 Administer in the morning before school for optimal effect. 

 Monitor school performance and behavioral changes . 

 Communicate regularly with teachers and caregivers about medication effects. 

 

 

 

 

 Additional Information 

 

 

 Contraindications: 

 

 Hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or formulation components. 

 Use within 14 days of MAOI therapy (risk of hypertensive crisis). 

 Symptomatic cardiovascular disease, moderate-to-severe hypertension, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma . 

 History of substance use disorder , unless benefits outweigh risks. 

 

 

 

 Pregnancy: 

 

 Category C ; use only if benefits outweigh risks. 

 May cause neonatal withdrawal symptoms or low birth weight . 

 

 

 

 Lactation: 

 

 Excreted in breast milk ; not recommended due to potential infant exposure. 

 

 

 

 Drug Interactions: 

 

 Serotonergic drugs (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs) increase serotonin syndrome risk . 

 Acidifying agents (e.g., ascorbic acid) may reduce drug absorption. 

 Alkalinizing agents (e.g., sodium bicarbonate) may increase methylphenidate levels. 

 May potentiate hypertensive effects of certain medications (e.g., decongestants, beta-agonists).