Enter Your Email Address to Receive a
Copy of MedicExhange Member Demograhpics

FDA warns about the risk of Burns associated during MRI Scans from Transdermal Drug Patches with metallic backings.

The FDA has warned about the risky burns during MRI Scans from certain transdermal drug patches, medicated patches that are applied to the skin, that contain aluminum or other metals in the backing of the patches. Patches that contain aluminum metal can overheat during an MRI scan and cause skin burns in the immediate area of the patch.

Transdermal patches slowly deliver medicines through the skin. Some patches contain metal in the layer of the patch that is not in contact with the skin.  The metal in the backing of these patches may not be visible.

FDA recommends that healthcare professionals referring patients to have an MRI scan identify those patients who are wearing a patch before the patients have the MRI scan. The healthcare professional should advise these patients about the procedures for removing and disposing of the patch before the MRI scan, and replacing the patch after the MRI scan.

FDA advisory suggests that, till the safety issue is resolved, patients should discuss about their patches with  doctors before going through MRI.

Source: FDA Public Health Advisory