Method and device for administering dexmedetomidine transdermally

摘要

Transdermal administration of dexmedetomidine, the dextrorotatory isomer of medetomidine, is described. The method involves sedating a patient by administering dexmedetomidine to a predetermined area of skin at an administration rate and for a time period effective to achieve the desired level of sedation. A therapeutic system for transdermally administering the drug is also provided. The therapeutic system is in the form of a skin patch which is a laminated composite of a backing layer, an optional anchor adhesive layer, a contact adhesive layer, and one or more additional layers.