Daytrana: Uses, Side Effects, Warnings, & More

What Is Daytrana?

Daytrana is a skin patch containing methylphenidate. It is part of the stimulant drug class and is a common ADHD medication. The patch delivers methylphenidate through the skin, providing a consistent level of the medication throughout the day.¹ Stimulant medications, such as Daytrana, work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, leading to improved focus and attention with decreased impulsivity.¹ A generic version of this patch was approved in 2022.

How Does Daytrana Work?

When the Daytrana patch is applied to the skin, methylphenidate is slowly absorbed into the body, providing a consistent effect throughout the day. ² Methylphenidate absorbed through the skin works the same way as methylphenidate tablets. Methylphenidate increases certain chemicals in the brain that are associated with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. By increasing these chemicals, an individual with ADHD will notice enhanced focus, better impulse control, and reduced hyperactivity.

Is Daytrana Similar to Adderall?

Daytrana and Adderall are both commonly prescribed for the treatment of ADHD, but there are some differences. Daytrana uses a skin patch to deliver the medication, while Adderall is taken by mouth. Daytrana provides methylphenidate, while Adderall provides a combination of amphetamine salts. Both medications are stimulants, however, and have similar effects on the brain.

Is Daytrana the Same as Ritalin?

Daytrana and Ritalin share the same active ingredient, methylphenidate, which helps manage ADHD symptoms. However, the way the medication is delivered is different. Daytrana is a skin patch that provides a gradual release into the body. Ritalin is an oral medication that comes in immediate-release and extended-release formulations.

What Is Daytrana Used to Treat?

Daytrana is an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of ADHD in children aged 6-17. FDA approval signifies that a medication has undergone rigorous testing and evaluation to evaluate its safety and effectiveness for an indicated condition. In some cases, healthcare providers might choose to use Daytrana off-label, which means for a purpose other than FDA-approved use. A provider may choose to use a medication off-label when, in their professional judgment, it may offer a benefit to someone.

Side Effects of Daytrana

Daytrana may lead to side effects that are common in those taking other forms of methylphenidate, including decreased appetite, weight loss, and trouble sleeping.¹ Most side effects are mild and will resolve as the body adjusts to the new medication. However, some side effects may be severe or persistent, requiring discontinuation of Daytrana. As Daytrana is a patch, its application may also cause skin irritation unrelated to the methylphenidate.²

Common Side Effects of Daytrana

The most common side effects caused by Daytrana are related to the effect of methylphenidate on the body and brain. While the most common side effects are mild and resolve over time, it is important to notify your healthcare provider if you are having severe or persistent side effects.

Common side effects of Daytrana include:^{1, 2, 4}

• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Insomnia

*All medications, including Daytrana, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Serious Side Effects of Daytrana

Although rare, Daytrana can cause serious side effects in some individuals. It is important to recognize severe side effects early and seek immediate medical care if they occur.

Serious side effects of Daytrana may include:^{1, 2, 3}

• Changes in vision
• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Heart palpitations
• Low blood pressure

*All medications, including Daytrana, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Allergic Reactions to Daytrana

Allergic reactions to Daytrana and methylphenidate are rare but possible. If an allergic reaction occurs, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention to lower the risk of severe long-term consequences.

Allergic reactions to Daytrana may include:³

• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat
• Hives
• Itching
• Swelling or blistering of the skin that was covered by the patch
• Fainting
• Coma

If someone experiences an allergic reaction while using Daytrana, it is important to stop using the medication and seek medical help immediately. After receiving treatment for the allergic reaction, a healthcare provider will be able to provide alternative options for the treatment of ADHD.

Daytrana Warnings & Precautions

Before starting Daytrana, it’s necessary to be aware of the warnings and precautions associated with its use. These include the risk of serious effects with long-term complications. It is important to have a thorough evaluation by your healthcare provider to minimize these risks.

Precautions for taking Daytrana address:^{1, 2}

• Heart health: Sudden death has been reported in children with heart abnormalities who take Daytrana. Stimulants such as Daytrana should generally not be used in those with a known heart condition.
• Psychiatric health: Taking stimulant medications can lead to episodes of mania or psychosis, especially in those with a pre-existing psychotic disorder or bipolar disorder.
• Seizures: Taking Daytrana may lower the threshold of developing seizures for those with a history of seizures.
• Painful erections: Prolonged and painful erections have been reported in those taking Daytrana.
• Decreased growth: Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate have been associated with slowing growth in children. It is important for a child’s growth to be closely monitored when using Daytrana.
• Using Daytrana during pregnancy: Using Daytrana during pregnancy has not been well studied. Continuing Daytrana during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
• Using Daytrana while breastfeeding: A small amount of methylphenidate is excreted in breast milk, but the effect on a newborn is unknown. Continuing Daytrana while breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Interactions With Daytrana

It is important to be aware of the potential interactions between Daytrana and other medications, substances, and herbs. Interactions can lead to harmful effects or reduced effectiveness of the medication. Before starting Daytrana, It is important to tell your healthcare provider of all the medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, substances, and herbal products.

5 substances you should avoid while taking Daytrana include:¹

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Using Daytrana with MAOIs can cause severe hypertension, leading to significant side effects such as stroke, heart attacks, and death. Examples of MAOIs include isocarboxazid, phenelzine, selegiline, and tranylcypromine.
• Antihypertensive drugs: Daytrana can cause an increase in blood pressure leading to decreased effectiveness of drugs used to treat hypertension.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): Methylphenidate may decrease the breakdown of SSRIs in the body, leading to increased levels in the body. Those taking SSRIs, such as sertraline, fluoxetine, and escitalopram, may need to lower their dose of these medications.
• Anti-seizure medications: Methylphenidate may decrease the breakdown of some anti-seizure medications, leading to increased levels in the body. These medications include phenobarbital, phenytoin, and primidone.
• Risperidone: When changing the starting Daytrana or changing the dose, those taking Risperidone may see worsening side effects.

Daytrana Dosages for FDA-Approved Treatment

Daytrana is FDA-approved for the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents (ages 6-17). The starting dose can vary depending on several factors, including the age of the individual, medical history, and severity of symptoms. Each patch is changed every day.

Daytrana Forms & Strengths

Daytrana is only available in patches, and the strength depends on the size of the patch. A larger patch will have more methylphenidate, causing more methylphenidate to be absorbed into the body. The methylphenidate is absorbed slowly, providing a consistent level of methylphenidate in the body, similar to an extended-release medication.

Daytrana is available in the following forms and strengths:

• 12.5 cm² – Approximately 10 mg methylphenidate delivered per daily application
• 18.75 cm² – Approximately 15 mg methylphenidate delivered per daily application
• 25 cm² – Approximately 20 mg methylphenidate delivered per daily application
• 37.5 cm² – Approximately 30 mg methylphenidate delivered per daily application

How Should I Take Daytrana?

The adhesive side of the Daytrana patch should be placed on a clean, dry area of the hip. It should be applied immediately after opening. The patch should be pressed firmly in place with the palm of the hand for 30 seconds. The recommended wear time is 9 hours, regardless of patch size. After 9 hours, the patch can be slowly peeled off, and the area should be cleaned. The patch should then be discarded by flushing it down the toilet or placing it in a lidded container. Placing the next patch on the opposite hip the following morning is recommended.

What Happens If I Miss a Dose of Daytrana?

If you forget to apply the patch, it can be applied as soon as it is remembered. However, the patch should still be removed at the regular patch removal time. An extra patch should not be applied to make up for a missed dose.

Can You Become Addicted to Daytrana?

Daytrana, like other stimulant medications, carries the risk of dependency and misuse. While the risk for misuse is less common due to how the medication is delivered, cautious use is still needed. Healthcare providers will often follow specific protocols when prescribing stimulants to prevent misuse. This may include prescribing limits, regular follow-up visits, and monitoring for signs of misuse.

In cases where dependency or misuse is suspected, a medical detox or supervised medication discontinuation might be necessary. Medical detox involves the discontinuation of a medication in a controlled setting to minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms and relapse. A supervised medication discontinuation involves working with a healthcare provider to slowly and safely discontinue the use of a medication. Both approaches aim to manage potential withdrawal symptoms, prevent relapse, and support an individual in moving away from misuse and dependency.

Can You Overdose on Daytrana?

Daytrana overdose is possible if extra Daytrana patches are applied. This can lead to excessive absorption of methylphenidate into the body.

What Should You Do If You Take Too Much Daytrana?

If an extra patch is applied, the patch should be removed, and the area should be cleaned. The poison control center should be called at 1-800-222-1222. If someone with an overdose collapses or is not breathing, 911 should be called.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Daytrana

If you or your child are struggling with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms and considering Daytrana for treatment, it is important to discuss your options with your healthcare team, including your primary doctor, psychiatrist, and therapist. You may want to ask about its suitability for you, potential benefits, and possible side effects based on your specific situation.

If you are in need of a prescriber or want to change prescribers, online psychiatry services are a great option to consider. These online platforms can connect you with a qualified professional who can provide medical care from the comfort of your home.

Questions to ask your care team about Daytrana include:

• How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Daytrana?
• Am I at risk for more serious symptoms if I am already taking medication treatments for other mental health disorders?
• What is the best dosage to ensure fewer side effects?
• When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing sexual side effects?
• Is there anything I should tell my therapist about this new medication?
• Why would I use Daytrana patches over other medication options?
• What are the potential risks associated with the long-term use of Daytrana?
• Where can I find more information about Daytrana?
• Are there any lifestyle factors that I need to consider when using Daytrana?

In My Experience

In my experience, Daytrana can be an excellent option for the treatment of ADHD symptoms in children. It provides a safe and reliable method to deliver methylphenidate to the body, leading to improvements in focus and attention while decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity. It can be particularly helpful in children who have a hard time taking medications by mouth.