What Is the Methylphenidate Patch Used For? (Cont.)

How the Methylphenidate Patch Works

Although the methylphenidate patch is a stimulant, it has effects that are opposite from what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, the methylphenidate patch has a calming effect. While it is not known exactly how the medicine produces a calming effect, it is known that it affects certain chemicals in the brain (see Methylphenidate and D2 Receptors).
 
As the name implies, the methylphenidate patch is a skin patch that contains methylphenidate. The methylphenidate is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. After the methylphenidate patch is applied, it takes about two hours before the medicine begins to take effect. After the patch is removed, the effect slowly wears off.
 

Is the Methylphenidate Patch Used for Young Children?

The methylphenidate patch has not been approved for use in children younger than six years of age.
 

Is the Methylphenidate Patch Used Off-Label?

On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend methylphenidate patches for treating something other than ADHD in children. This is called an "off-label" use. At this time, there are a few off-label uses for the methylphenidate patch, including:
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;