Which group of patients may require special consideration when applying transdermal patches?

The group of patients that requires special consideration when applying transdermal patches is infants and the elderly. This is due to several physiological factors that influence the pharmacokinetics of drug absorption through the skin in these populations.

Infants have thinner skin and a larger surface area to volume ratio compared to adults, which can lead to increased absorption of drugs from the transdermal patch. Their skin also has different hydration levels and barrier properties, which can affect how well the patch performs and how much of the drug enters systemic circulation.

On the other hand, the elderly often experience changes in skin permeability and composition, in addition to having age-related physiological changes that can affect drug metabolism and elimination. For instance, the skin of elderly individuals may become thinner and drier, impacting transdermal drug absorption. Moreover, comorbidities that are prevalent in older adults, as well as polypharmacy, can further complicate the pharmacokinetics of medications delivered via transdermal patches.

Considering these factors, special attention must be given to the dosage and efficacy of transdermal patches in both infants and the elderly to ensure safe and effective treatment outcomes.