Drug Patches...Are They Safe?

Today, many drugs are available in drug patch form. What are drug patches? They are transdermal drug-delivery systems. And are they really safe? Yes, according to researchers at the Mayo Clinic. They have fewer side effects because they allow for lower doses and a steady dose of medication. Patches bypass the liver and intestines and directly deliver the drugs into your bloodstream, which actually reduces side effects and liver damage.

Currently, drug patches are available for testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, narcotic painkillers, anti-nausea drugs for motion sickness and chemotherapy related nausea, nitroglycerine (for angina), and nicotine (to help people quit smoking).

There are some downsides however. Some people have reported hives where the patch has been applied; other patients have experienced some allergic reaction. The good news—researchers are developing drug patches for diabetes, Parkinson’s, depression, and asthma that will one day be available for use.