Fentanyl Patch Safety
The fentanyl patch (Duragesic) delivers a steady transdermal dose of a powerful narcotic to the wearer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued numerous warnings underscoring the importance of fentanyl patch safety because the amount of fentanyl in a single, improperly used patch is potent enough to cause severely labored breathing and death in some patients.
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Opioid Tolerance
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Only patients who have developed a high tolerance to other narcotics or opiods because of continuous treatment of severe chronic pain should use the fentanyl patch. The patch is not for acute, sporadic, minor or post-operative pain.
Awareness of Overdose Symptoms
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Fentanyl patch users and prescribers should be able to recognize symptoms of a fentanyl overdose, including difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, sweaty skin, difficulty talking or walking, faintness and confusion.
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Full Drug Regimen Disclosure
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Patients using the fentanyl patch should inform their physician of all prescription and over-the-counter medications they take because respiratory depression and potentially fatal drug interactions can occur.
Accurate Instructions
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Physicians must provide patients and caregivers with detailed instructions regarding the application, replacement and disposal of fentanyl patches.
Heat Avoidance
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An elevated body temperature can dangerously increase the level of fentanyl in the blood. Patients should avoid heating pads, hot tubs, hot showers, electric blankets and sunbathing while wearing a fentanyl patch. Patients who develop a fever of 102 degrees F or higher while wearing the patch should notify their physician immediately.
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