transdermal patches and MRI

Q: Why transdermal patches should be removed prior to MRI?



Answer: 

Many transdermal patches contain aluminum or other metal in their nonadhesive backing and may cause skin burn. For safety reasons, these patches should be removed before MRI and reapplied afterwards. 

In case of nitroglycerin patch, medicine should be properly wiped off as it is combustible and carries extra hazard of fire in MRI suite.

#pharmacology


References;

Kuehn B. FDA warning: remove drug patches before MRI to prevent burns to skin. JAMA. 2009;301(13):1328