Cutaneous reactions to transdermal therapeutic systems (TTSs)

Cutaneous side effects to TTSs are common and can result in poor patient compliance. A review summarises these.

 

Skin irritation
Skin irritation is the most commonly reported cutaneous side effect among users of TTSs. The exact prevalence is unknown, but general "skin reactions" have been reported in up to 97% of patients. Classic irritant reactions are sharply demarcated, are limited to the area of TTS application and quickly fade away after removal.

 

Allergic Contact Dermatitis to TTSs
Allergy to the active pharmaceutical agents, adhesives, and other components og TTs has been described, but the prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis from TTSs is unknown. 

Management of Cutaneous Reactions to TTSs
Management of cutaneous reactions includes rotation of application sites, TTS placement on the buttocks, trying alternate brands and a shorter duration of occlusion. Also pretreatment with topical corticosteroids has been advocated as methods.

 

Reference: Musel, Andrea L.  & Warshaw, Erin M. Cutaneous Reactions to Transdermal Therapeutic Systems. Dermatitis. 2006; 17(3):109-122. Accessed November 8th, 2007 at www.medscape.com