Description

A change in temperature may alter release of a drug from a transdermal patch. Increased absorption can result in an overdose while decreased absorption may result in ineffective therapy.


 

Possible mechanisms: (1) increased dermal blood flow, (2) increased drug diffusion from patch.

Factor

Increased Absorption

Decreased Absorption

body temperature

fever (hyperthermia)

hypothermia

application of an external temperature altering device

heat blanket or pad

ice or cooling blanket

radiant heat

heat lamp, sun exposure, tanning bed

 

rest and relaxation

sauna, hot tub

swimming in cold water

sleeping conditions

heated water bed

 

external temperature

extreme heat

extreme cold (if patch in on exposed skin)

 

 


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