Introduction and marketing status of donepezil transdermal patch

Donepezil transdermal patch is an innovative drug delivery method for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Its active ingredient is donepezil (Donepezil). Donepezil is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that mainly increases acetylcholine levels in the synaptic cleft by inhibiting the degradation of acetylcholine, thereby improving cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Traditional donepezil preparations are mainly oral tablets, and the development of transdermal patches provides patients with a new non-oral administration route.

The biggest advantage of donepezil transdermal patch is that it can provide stable blood concentration, avoid gastrointestinal adverse reactions of oral drugs, and improve patient compliance. Transdermal patches are a good option for patients who have difficulty swallowing, have an irritated gastrointestinal tract, or have liver damage. In addition, transdermal patches can reduce the number of daily medications, which are usually changed once a week, greatly reducing the medication burden on patients and caregivers.

In terms of market status, the donepezil transdermal patch was jointly developed by Japan's Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical (Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical) and the United States' Corium company. The product name is Adlarity. The drug has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is available on the U.S. market. Donepezil transdermal patches on the US market are available in two specifications: 5mg/24hours and 10mg/24hours, which are suitable for patients with different degrees of Alzheimer's disease.

However, the donepezil transdermal patch is not yet available in mainland China. If domestic patients need to use this drug, they can purchase it through overseas medical institutions, cross-border drug purchasing platforms, or overseas purchasing agents. However, it is recommended that patients consult a professional doctor before purchasing medicines and ensure that the medicines are from regular sources to avoid purchasing fake and shoddy products.

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