What are transdermal patches?

What are transdermal patches?

Dr Basavaraj S Kumbar, Consultant- Internal Medicine, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, told us that transdermal patches are medicated, small adhesive strips applied to the skin that release medicine into the bloodstream slowly over time. “They are like a slow-release medicine sticker. Rather than pills or injections, the medicine is absorbed through the skin directly, bypassing the digestive system,” he explained.

According to him, these patches are available in various forms—some for pain, others to help quit smoking, regulate hormones, or suppress nausea. “They are worn on clean, dry skin and replaced as instructed. This method provides a constant dose of medicine, which is simpler to keep levels consistent in the body over a day or a week,” he said.

One of the best things about transdermal patches is convenience. You don’t have to keep taking a pill every few hours at a time—it delivers medicine slowly over hours. Dr Basavraj believes this reduces the risk of spikes and crashes in drug levels. It is also easier on the gut since the drug bypasses the stomach and liver, which may cause fewer side effects.

These transdermal patches are great for people who have trouble swallowing pills or need extended-release relief, like with chronic pain or hormone replacement.

When should you use transdermal pre-workout patches? (Source: Freepik)

All about pre-workout patches

Personal trainer Deepika Sharma added that there’s a pre-workout version of them as well. “They’re basically small patches you stick on your skin before a workout. Instead of drinking a shake or taking a supplement, these patches slowly release things like caffeine, vitamins, or amino acids into your body through your skin,” she explained.

Some people don’t feel great after drinking pre-workout—think jitters, bloating, or an upset stomach. Since the patch doesn’t go through your stomach, it can be a gentler option. “Also, the energy you get from it comes on more gradually and lasts longer—without that intense crash some people get from drinks or powders,” said Sharma.

When should people use them?

“It should be used when people need their drugs over time, especially for conditions like hormone imbalances or nicotine withdrawal. Doctors may recommend them for people with digestive issues, memory problems (who might forget pills), or those who need consistent, long-term medication,” said Dr Basavraj. They’re also helpful when oral medicines cause side effects or when someone can’t tolerate injections.

“And if you are using them for workout purposes, apply a patch about 30 to 60 minutes before you start working out. It’s handy when you’re feeling tired or sluggish, you’ve got an early morning workout and don’t want to eat yet, you’re hitting the gym after work and need a little push, or you want energy without the jittery feeling,” said Sharma.

Do’s and don’ts of using them

Do: Apply patches to clean, dry, and hairless skin (usually upper arm, chest, or back), rotate sites to avoid irritation, and follow timing instructions carefully. Press firmly so it sticks well. Store unused patches as per the label and keep them out of children’s reach.

Don’t: Don’t cut patches—they’re designed to release medicine in a specific way. Don’t apply to irritated or broken skin. Avoid direct heat (like heating pads) on patches, which can speed up drug release dangerously. Never reuse a patch or double-dose if you forget one—follow your doctor’s advice.

However, both experts warned that one should always use patches under medical advice to make sure it’s the right option for your health condition and lifestyle. Exercise caution, especially if you’re sensitive to caffeine, pregnant, breastfeeding, or dealing with a previous health condition.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.