Duragesic

Generic name: Fentanyl transdermal system

What is Duragesic?

Duragesic is a thin, adhesive, rectangular patch that is worn on your skin to manage constant moderate to severe chronic pain that needs to be treated around the clock and which cannot be treated by a combination narcotic, short-acting narcotic, or non-narcotic pain treatment products. Duragesic contains fentanyl, an opioid pain medicine similar to morphine, hydromorphone, methadone, oxycodone, and oxymorphone.

What is the most important information I should know about Duragesic?

Duragesic should only be used by people who are receiving or have developed a tolerance to pain therapy with products known as opioids. One serious side effect is slow, shallow breathing, and/or difficulty in breathing, if the dose is too high.

Like all other opioids, this drug has the potential for abuse. People at increased risk for opioid abuse include those with a personal or family history of substance abuse (including drug or alcohol abuse or addiction) or mental illness (eg, major depression).

Who should not take Duragesic?

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Duragesic should not be used if you have pain that will go away in a few days, such as pain from surgery, medical or dental procedures, or short-lasting conditions.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Duragesic?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Duragesic. Also, talk to your doctor about you complete medical history, especially if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual Duragesic patch dosage is calculated by your doctor on an individual basis. The maximum amount of time a patch should be worn is 72 hours.

How should I take Duragesic?

Duragesic should be applied immediately upon removal from the sealed package. The patch should be applied to intact, non-irritated and non-irradiated skin on a flat surface such as the chest, back, side, or upper arm. If the area of skin needs to be cleaned, use clear water; avoid soaps, oils, lotions, alcohol or other skin irritating agents.

Press patch firmly in place with the palm of the hand for 30 seconds, making sure the contact is complete, especially around the edges.

Each Duragesic patch may be worn continuously for 72 hours. The next patch should be applied to a different skin site after removal of the previous one. If the patch falls off before 72 hours, a new patch may be applied to a different area. Used patches should be folded so that the adhesive side of the patch adheres to itself, then the patch should be flushed down the toilet immediately upon removal.

What should I avoid while taking Duragesic?

Avoid exposing the Duragesic application site to direct external heat sources, such as heating pads or electric blankets, heat lamps, saunas, hot tubs, and heated water beds, etc.

Avoid using damaged or cut Duragesic patches or if the seal is broken, do not use; these can change the amount that is absorbed and cause too much medicine to be absorbed through the skin that can cause serious and sometimes fatal breathing problems.

Never adjust the number of patches applied without first consulting your doctor and receiving instructions.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Duragesic?

If Duragesic is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Duragesic with alcohol and CNS depressants, such as sleep medications and tranquilizers.

What are the possible side effects of Duragesic?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: constipation/severe constipation, excessive sweating, nausea, drowsiness, vomiting, and dry mouth

Can I receive Duragesic if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Duragesic during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Duragesic?

If you miss a dose of Duragesic, apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double your dose.

How should I store Duragesic?

Store Duragesic patches at room temperature in a secure place out of the reach of children.