What could potentially happen if a new transdermal patch is placed on the same area as an old one?

Placing a new transdermal patch on the same area as an old one could potentially lead to an overdose of medication. Transdermal patches are designed to release a specific dose of medication into the bloodstream over a set period. When a new patch is applied over an old patch, it's possible for the combined release of medications from both patches to exceed the intended dose, leading to increased levels of the drug in the system. This can result in heightened effects and toxicity, as the body may absorb more of the medication than it can appropriately manage. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that any old patch is removed before applying a new one to prevent such complications and ensure patient safety.