How effective is donepezil transdermal patch?

The main mechanism of action of donepezil transdermal patch is to inhibit acetylcholinesterase, thereby increasing the content of acetylcholine in the brain and improving the cognitive function of patients with Alzheimer's disease. Clinical studies have shown that after using 9.5mg/24 hours or 19mg/24hours transdermal patch for 6 months, patients’ cognitive scores ( span>ADAS-Cog or MMSE) can improve 2~3 points, indicating that the drug has a positive effect in improving memory, attention and language ability. Additionally, patients using the transdermal patch experienced slower cognitive decline compared with the placebo group.

The efficacy of the transdermal patch is not only reflected in the improvement of cognitive function, but also in improving patients' daily living abilities (ADL) and behavioral symptoms. Research has found that after patch treatment, patients' moods became more stable, and their symptoms of anxiety, irritability and mental restlessness were relieved. Compared with patients who did not receive treatment, individuals in the transdermal patch group maintained their ability to live independently longer and performed better in social skills and emotional expression.

Compared with oral donepezil, the transdermal patch provides the same cognitive improvement but with fewer gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition, the transdermal patch can maintain a more stable blood concentration and avoid nighttime symptom fluctuations caused by oral medications due to fluctuations in blood concentration. Transdermal patches are a better option for patients who are unable to take oral medications due to dysphagia or gastrointestinal intolerance.

Long-term use of transdermal patches can delay disease progression and improve patients’ quality of life. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, the drug can help slow cognitive decline and help patients maintain basic daily functions. Clinical data shows that patients who have been continuously treated for more than 1 year have slower cognitive function decline than those who are not treated, indicating that this drug has important value in disease management. Therefore, transdermal patches offer an effective and well-tolerated treatment modality for patients with Alzheimer's disease who require long-term treatment.

References: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/212304s000lbl.pdf