Medicated patches dangerous when heated, say experts

By Elizabeth Rhein

Published on March 10, 2006

In the past few years, administering drugs by way of a medicated adhesive skin patch has become more and more popular. Patients find that this method is convenient, and doctors favor the patches because they are easier on the liver and stomach. However, the industry watchdog Institute for Safe Medical Practices has called for the Food and Drug Administration to take a closer look at the safety of such patches.

Citing studies that span the last 20 years, the group states that the absorption rate of patch drugs can increase to a dangerous level when body temperature is raised. The cause of such temperature increases are widely varied; hot tubs, fevers, exercise, and even tanning produce the kind of heat that makes the skin more vulnerable to the absorption of drugs.

The drug that appears to react the most dramatically to heat is fentayl, a painkiller that is 100 times more potent than morphine. Birth control patches have also been scrutinized due to their link to blood clots and heart irregularities.

As a result of the watchdog group's findings, the FDA is scheduled to begin an "exhaustive review" of drug patches and their safety, especially when combined with increased body temperature.

Comment on this article →