Managing ADHD with Xelstrym: A Breakthrough Transdermal Solution

Kevin Keane
Sep 15, 2024
4 min read

What is Xelstrym?

Xelstrym is a brand-name prescription medication used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in individuals aged 6 years and older. It contains dextroamphetamine, a central nervous system stimulant, but unlike traditional oral medications, Xelstrym is administered as a transdermal patch. This unique delivery method offers a convenient, once-daily option for managing ADHD symptoms, providing a steady release of the medication throughout the day.

Indications:

Xelstrym is FDA-approved for:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults.

The transdermal patch offers an alternative to oral ADHD medications, which may be ideal for those who have difficulty swallowing pills or need more consistent medication levels throughout the day.

How Does Xelstrym Work?

Xelstrym works by increasing the availability of certain chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are critical for attention, focus, and impulse control. Specifically, Xelstrym works by:

Stimulant Action: Dextroamphetamine, the active ingredient in Xelstrym, is a stimulant that helps enhance the activity of brain chemicals responsible for attention and behavior regulation.
Transdermal Delivery: The medication is delivered gradually through the skin, allowing for continuous symptom control throughout the day.

This mechanism helps improve focus, reduce hyperactive behavior, and enhance impulse control in individuals with ADHD.

How Can Xelstrym Help with ADHD?

Xelstrym is designed to help individuals with ADHD manage symptoms such as:

Inattention: Difficulty focusing, staying organized, or completing tasks.
Hyperactivity: Excessive movement, fidgeting, or an inability to sit still.
Impulsivity: Acting without thinking or difficulty controlling immediate reactions.

The benefit of using a patch like Xelstrym is that it provides a controlled and steady release of medication, potentially leading to more consistent symptom management and fewer fluctuations in the effectiveness of the medication throughout the day.

Dosage:

Xelstrym is available in multiple strengths, ranging from 4.5 mg to 18 mg per patch, with the exact dosage determined by your healthcare provider based on your needs and response to the medication.

Initial Dose: For individuals new to stimulant medications, a lower dose patch is typically recommended, which may be adjusted over time based on the response to treatment.
Dosage Adjustments: Your healthcare provider will help you find the correct patch strength and may adjust it over time as necessary.

Administration:

Once Daily: Apply the Xelstrym patch once daily in the morning to a clean, dry area of the skin. Common application sites include the upper arm, back, hip, or side of the chest.
Wear for 9 Hours: The patch is typically worn for 9 hours and then removed. Do not wear the patch for longer than 9 hours unless directed by your healthcare provider.
Rotate Application Sites: Avoid applying the patch to the same spot on consecutive days to reduce the risk of skin irritation.

Potential Side Effects

Like all stimulant medications, Xelstrym may cause side effects. Some of the most common side effects include:

Appetite Loss: Stimulants like dextroamphetamine can reduce appetite, leading to weight loss in some individuals.
Sleep Problems: Difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia) can occur, especially if the patch is worn for too long or applied too late in the day.
Skin Irritation: Because Xelstrym is a patch, skin irritation at the application site may occur, including redness, itching, or rash.
Nausea or Stomach Pain: Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort when starting the medication.
Growth Suppression in Children
- Possible Height Stagnation: There is evidence that long-term use of stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine may lead to slowed growth in children. Some studies suggest that children who take these medications for extended periods may experience a reduction in their growth rate, leading to potential height stagnation. Healthcare providers will closely monitor a child’s growth during treatment with Xelstrym and adjust the dosage as necessary .

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider.

Precautions and Interactions:

Heart Conditions: Stimulants can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Individuals with a history of heart problems, such as structural heart defects or arrhythmias, should use Xelstrym with caution.
Mental Health Concerns: Individuals with a history of severe anxiety, agitation, or bipolar disorder should consult their healthcare provider before starting Xelstrym, as stimulants can exacerbate these conditions.
Substance Abuse History: Xelstrym contains dextroamphetamine, which has the potential for abuse. Those with a history of substance misuse should be closely monitored while using the medication.

Drug Interactions:

Xelstrym may interact with other medications, including:

MAO Inhibitors: Using Xelstrym with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can lead to dangerous increases in blood pressure and should be avoided.
Other Stimulants: Combining Xelstrym with other stimulant medications can increase the risk of side effects, including cardiovascular issues.

Conclusion:

Xelstrym is a novel, transdermal option for individuals seeking to manage ADHD symptoms. By delivering dextroamphetamine through the skin, it offers continuous symptom relief throughout the day with the convenience of a once-daily patch. As with any medication, it’s important to discuss your health history and treatment goals with your healthcare provider to determine if Xelstrym is the right fit for your ADHD management plan.

Written by:

Kevin W. Keane