Using Skin Patches

Posted on December 15, 2008
Filed Under Skin |

The skin patch is a thin foil with an adhesive applied to the skin as a dressing. Containing a drug in a reservoir that allows the slow passage of the drug patch to the skin and from there into the blood.

Used as an alternative way of administering drugs. May be useful in cases of chronically ill or who can not take medicine orally. The patches are also useful in people who often forget to take your medication during the day, or who appreciate the discreet form of this medication.
* Carefully remove the patch from its sleeve, taking care not to damage it. Use your fingers and scissors that could not cut it.
* Remove the protector from the back, leaving the adhesive exposed. Do not touch it with your fingers.
* Apply the patch firmly with the adhesive to the skin in the same area that is clean, dry and without hair, as specified in the instructions for use of the patch. Do not apply on irritated areas or stains. Do not use other products such as moisturizers, creams or talcum powder, it could nullify the adhesive.
* Move your finger along the edges of the patch to ensure it is adhered and which can not enter the water or air. If it is set correctly, you can bathe, shower or to swim without dropping. (See the specific instructions of the patch to make sure you can do, because some do not allow such activities).
* Change the patch as often as indicated by the doctor. When you first remove a new patch applied to the former and the other in a somewhat separate area, so avoid skin irritation.
* To remove the patch lifts a corner and pull gently. The remnants of adhesive can be removed with oil child.
* If a patch falls off replace it with a new one and keep the pace of change normally. If you just take a bath or shower wait for the skin to cool before putting it.

Special considerations for some types of patches
* Patches of hormone replacement therapy (a treatment for menopause) should be applied below the waist, the buttocks or thighs. Do not be put at or near the breast.
* Nitrate patches should be applied to the chest or upper arm. We must remember the patch removed at least four hours a day for the body to regain sensitivity to the drug.
* The nicotine patches should be applied to the chest, upper arm or hip. Should not be smoking with a nicotine patch.
* Patches of analgesics such as fentanyl (a powerful opiate analgesic effect), buprenorphine, or others are used for severe chronic pain (eg cancer pain). These patches should be applied on the torso or upper arm, and removed every 72 hours. It is very important to discard the used patch properly. Read the instructions that come with it.

Other tips
* The skin is red, irritated or itching may occur where the patch was. If this continues worsens or if a rash appears, you should consult your doctor.
* Try to avoid placing the patch under tight clothing or elastic.
* If you take the sun with the patch, cover it so they do not give the sun.
* Do not apply heat to the patch, which could increase the amount of medicine absorbed into the body, increasing the risk of possible side effects.
* If you accidentally apply more patches or is necessary to remove the additions and the doctor immediately.
* If you forget the patch, you should wear it as soon as possible. Should not apply at the same time looking for the effect of the patch forgotten.
* The patches should never be divided or cut.
* Patches should never be used after the expiry date.
* The patches should be stored at room temperature. Do not store in the bathroom because they can become hot or damp.
* Do not prescribe their own medicines to others, even if they have the same symptoms. Can be detrimental in others.
* If the patch accidentally hits another person, must be removed immediately and consult your doctor.
* The medicines should always be used in accordance with the box or in the prospectus and as prescribed by the physician.
* Medications must always remain beyond the reach of children.
* Dispose of used patches carefully, as it still contain some active ingredient. Fold the patch so that it stuck and make sure it is out of reach of children and animals.

Share and Enjoy: