In a letter to health care providers, drug manufacturer UCB explained, "The decision to recall is due to the formation of rotigotine crystals in the patches. When the drug crystallizes, less drug is available to be absorbed through the skin. Therefore, the efficacy of the affected product may vary."
Patients currently using the Neupro patch to treat Parkinson's disease need to talk with their physician soon about transitioning to other medications.
UCB has also issued a Neupro recall patient letter. It includes pictures of crystal formations on patches. Patients using Neupro can use the photographs as a guide to determine if their Neupro supply is likely to be effective, or if the offending crystals have formed.
Sources:
UCB Inc., Neupro recall letter to health care providers
UCB, Inc., Neupro recall letter to patients