Cutting of Transdermal patches

[davchar23]

I need to use 7.5mcg/hr buprenorphine patches to control my RLS breakthrough and this means cutting either a 10 or 15mch/hr patch.

Transdermal patches can be placed into two types "Matrix" or "Reservoir". Matrix type can be cut whilst Reservoir type should not be cut

There is limited research available on this issue but it seems that buprenorphine patches can be cut as they are of the "Matrix" type. However there is some doubt as to whether the cut unused part can be used as "leakage" may occur unless stored correctly.

Square patches should be cut diagonally whilst round patches cut across the diameter.

I have experienced varying effectivity scenarios using buprenorphine cut patches. Sometimes there are signs of even more reduction in the effectivity period. By that i mean that a full patch does not last the claimed 7 days (more like 5 or 6 days) but cut might only be 4/5 days?

i hope this information is of interest to fellow forum members and I would be interested to hear about other's experiences on this topic

Davchar23

[Madlegs1]

I had similar situation with Fentanyl - Duragesic patches. They were matrix.

Apart from the general problem of some people finding they don't last as long as touted, it worked very well.

As you point out, the rectangular patches are a lot easier to subdivide than the ovoid or round ones. Bit of guess work involved. But made life interesting!😝😎

For keeping the unused part " alive", I would replace the backing film tightly and use sticky tape to reinforce any exposed edges.

I found that worked well.

Good luck with your journey!💚😎

[davchar23 in reply to Madlegs1]

Dear Madlegs1,

Thanks your reply and useful idea for leftover part of patch

Kind regards

Davchar

[RiversW]

Hey Devchar

I found this guide that might help answer the question, "to cut or not to cut."

medicinesinformation.co.nz/...

Hope this is useful.

Rivers

[davchar23 in reply to RiversW]

Dear Rivers,

Thanks for posting that as it is a really useful paper

Davchar