Definition

Noun: A transdermal patch is a small, adhesive, medicated patch that is placed on the skin. It is designed to deliver a specific dose of medication through the skin and into the bloodstream over a controlled, extended period of time.

Usage

A transdermal patch is used as a method of drug delivery. It is applied to clean, dry, and usually hairless skin. The medication is absorbed slowly and steadily, providing a consistent therapeutic effect and often reducing the frequency of doses compared to oral medications.

Examples

• The doctor prescribed a nicotine transdermal patch to help with quitting smoking.
• Some forms of hormone replacement therapy are administered via a transdermal patch.
• For patients who have difficulty swallowing pills, a transdermal patch can be an effective alternative.
• It is important to rotate the application site of the transdermal patch to avoid skin irritation.

Advanced Usage

• Transdermal delivery system: This is a more technical term for the technology behind a transdermal patch, referring to the method of administering drugs through the skin for systemic distribution.
• The effectiveness of a transdermal patch depends on factors like the drug's molecular size and the skin's permeability.

Variants and Related Words

• Patch (noun): In a medical context, this is often used as a shorter, informal term for a transdermal patch (e.g., "a nicotine patch").
• Transdermal (adjective): Describes anything relating to or denoting the application of a substance to the skin for absorption into the bloodstream (e.g., "transdermal medication").
• Dermal patch: A less common synonym.

Synonyms

• Skin patch
• Medicated patch
• Transcutaneous patch (a technical synonym, with "cutaneous" relating to the skin)

Related Phrases

• To apply/wear a patch: To put on or use a transdermal patch.
  • Example: The patient must apply a new patch every 24 hours.
• To change/remove a patch: To take off an old patch and replace it.
  • Example: Remember to remove the old patch before applying a new one.

Noun

1. a medicated adhesive pad placed on the skin for absorption of a time released dose of medication into the bloodstream