What Is Daytrana?

Daytrana is a prescription transdermal patch that delivers methylphenidate through the skin to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children aged 6-17. It is the only ADHD medication that comes in a patch form, offering a non-oral alternative for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills or who benefit from the flexible dosing a patch allows.

Daytrana is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence. It was manufactured by Noven Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical.

Important update: Daytrana has been discontinued by its manufacturer and is no longer being produced. No generic version was ever approved. This article provides comprehensive information for patients researching the medication or seeking alternatives.

What Is Daytrana Used For?

Daytrana is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in patients aged 6-17. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning and development.

Daytrana works by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft. This helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control.

Off-Label Uses

While not FDA-approved for these uses, some providers have prescribed methylphenidate (including Daytrana) off-label for:

• Adult ADHD
• Narcolepsy (rare)

These off-label uses were uncommon with Daytrana specifically, since oral methylphenidate formulations were more readily available and typically preferred for adults.

How Is Daytrana Taken?

Daytrana is applied as a transdermal patch to the hip area. Here's how it works:

Application

• Apply one patch daily to a clean, dry area on the hip
• Apply approximately 2 hours before the desired effect
• Press the patch firmly in place for about 30 seconds
• Alternate between left and right hips each day to reduce skin irritation
• Do not cut or damage the patch

Wearing and Removal

• Wear the patch for up to 9 hours
• The medication continues to be absorbed for some time after removal, so effects don't stop immediately when you take it off
• Remove the patch by peeling it off slowly; fold it in half sticky-side together and dispose of it safely

Flexible Dosing

One unique advantage of Daytrana is that the duration of effect can be partially controlled by how long you wear the patch. Wearing it for a shorter period means a shorter duration of effect, which can help manage side effects like insomnia.

Available Strengths

Daytrana was available in four strengths:

• 10 mg/9 hr (27.5 mg patch) — starting dose
• 15 mg/9 hr (41.3 mg patch)
• 20 mg/9 hr (55 mg patch)
• 30 mg/9 hr (82.5 mg patch) — maximum dose

Doctors typically start with the lowest dose (10 mg/9 hr) and increase weekly based on response and tolerability.

Who Should Not Take Daytrana?

Daytrana is not appropriate for everyone. The following are contraindications:

• Allergy to methylphenidate or any component of the patch
• MAO inhibitor use — Daytrana must not be taken concurrently with or within 14 days of MAO inhibitors
• Glaucoma
• Motor tics or Tourette's syndrome — including a family history of Tourette's
• Severe anxiety, tension, or agitation — stimulants can worsen these conditions

Use With Caution

Patients with the following conditions should discuss risks carefully with their doctor:

• Heart disease, structural cardiac abnormalities, or high blood pressure
• History of psychiatric disorders (psychosis, bipolar disorder)
• Seizure history
• History of substance abuse

For a full list of potential drug interactions, see our dedicated guide.

How Much Does Daytrana Cost?

When it was available, Daytrana was one of the more expensive ADHD medications:

• Cash price: $350-$500 for a 30-patch supply
• No generic available: Without a generic alternative, there was no lower-cost version
• Insurance coverage: Many insurers required prior authorization and step therapy (trying oral methylphenidate first). Some plans excluded Daytrana entirely due to cost.

Noven Pharmaceuticals previously offered a savings card that reduced copays to as low as $25/month, but this program is no longer active since the medication was discontinued.

For current patients still finding Daytrana or looking at alternatives, our guide on saving money on Daytrana covers available options.

Daytrana Availability in 2026

Daytrana has been discontinued by Noven Pharmaceuticals. The medication experienced supply disruptions starting around 2016-2017, and by 2023-2024 it became extremely difficult to find. No generic methylphenidate transdermal patch has been approved.

If you're looking for Daytrana or an available alternative:

• Use Medfinder to check pharmacy stock in your area
• Talk to your doctor about alternative ADHD medications like Concerta, Ritalin LA, or Quillivant XR
• Read our shortage update for the latest information

Final Thoughts

Daytrana was a unique ADHD treatment that offered something no other medication could: transdermal delivery of methylphenidate via a daily patch. Its flexible dosing, non-oral format, and steady medication delivery made it a valuable option for many families.

While its discontinuation is a loss for patients who relied on it, the good news is that several effective ADHD treatments remain available. If you need help finding a medication, Medfinder can help you check real-time pharmacy availability near you.