Directions
How To Use Fentanyl (Duragesic)
Fentanyl transdermal patch is applied to the skin every 72 hours. Read the prescription label and patient information carefully and use the fentanyl transdermal patch exactly as instructed. Do not change the dose, dosing frequency, or treatment duration without your doctor’s approval.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of fentanyl patches and perform a dose adjustment every 3-6 days if needed. Tell your doctor if you experience side effects or your pain is not controlled. Your doctor will adjust the dose based on your response.
To apply the fentanyl patch, choose an area of skin that is flat and hairless, such as the upper arms, chest, back, or flanks (sides of the waist). If the skin is hairy, use a pair of scissors to trim the hair as closely as possible but do not shave the area. Do not apply a fentanyl transdermal patch to skin that is excessively oily, broken, cut, damaged, irritated, sensitive, or has undergone radiation treatment.
Change your patch at around the same time every time (after 72 hours or 3 days). The transdermal patch is for application to the skin only. Do not chew or swallow the patch.
If you are using the patch on a child or someone who cannot think clearly, choose an area that is not accessible, such as the back, to prevent them from removing the patch and putting it in their mouth.
Do not use transdermal patches that are damaged in any way. Do not cut a fentanyl patch into smaller pieces - this may cause too much of the medicine to be released all at once, putting you at risk of an overdose.
You can wear fentanyl patches while showering, bathing, or swimming. If the patch falls off during these activities, dispose of it carefully and apply a new patch. Remove the new patch 72 hours after application.
Here is a step-by-step guide to apply the fentanyl transdermal patch:
- Make sure the application site is clean and dry. Do not apply any soap, lotion, oil, or other skin products to the area.
- Open the pouch, remove the fentanyl patch, and peel off the protective liner behind the patch. Avoid touching the adhesive on the patch.
- Press the patch firmly on the chosen area for 30 seconds. Make sure it sticks well, especially at the edges.
- If the patch does not stick properly, place some first-aid tape on the edges. If needed, you can also cover the patch with Tegaderm or Bioclusive brand see-through dressings. However, do not use any other types of bandages or coverings over the fentanyl patch.
- If your fentanyl transdermal patch falls off before it is time to replace it, dispose of it properly, apply a new patch, and replace the new patch 72 hours after you applied it.
- Wash your hands after applying the transdermal patch.
- To change the patch, peel off the old patch and apply a new patch to a different area to prevent skin irritation.
- Fold the used patch in half with the sticky side folded together and dispose of it by flushing it down the toilet.
Do not stop using fentanyl patches suddenly without talking to your doctor first. Stopping fentanyl abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, yawning, chills, sweating, goosebumps, watery eyes, runny nose, muscle aches, muscle weakness, joint pain, back pain, anxiety, irritability, sleep problems, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, loss of appetite, fast heartbeat, and fast breathing. Your doctor will tell you how to reduce your fentanyl dose slowly.
Missed dose: If you forget to apply a new fentanyl patch, do it as soon as you remember. Remember to remove the old patch before applying a new one. Do not use more than one fentanyl patch at a time unless your doctor tells you.
Storage: Store fentanyl at room temperature (between 15-30° C or 59-86° F) away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Do not store medications in the bathroom, where they can be exposed to moisture and heat. Keep all medications safely out of reach of children and pets.
Unused medicine: Unused or expired fentanyl patches should be disposed of in a way that children, other people, and pets cannot get to them. Do not throw fentanyl patches in the trash. The best way to dispose of expired or unneeded fentanyl is through your local waste disposal company or a medicine take-back program. Learn more about proper medication disposal. If you do not have access to such a program, remove the adhesive backing from unused patches, fold the patches in half with the sticky side together, and flush them down the toilet. Throw the protective liners and pouches in the trash can. Do not throw used patches in the trash can as they may contain residual fentanyl.
NOTE: This medication guide is a summary and may not contain all possible drug information on fentanyl patches. The information contained here may not be up-to-date. This sheet is for information purposes only. If you have questions about fentanyl patches, talk to your healthcare professionals for medical advice.
Discounted prices for fentanyl patches (Duragesic)
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