Fentanyl (Duragesic) Tips from Pharmacists

• Apply the fentanyl patch to an area of flat, hairless skin such as your upper arms, chest, back, or sides of the waist. Clip your hair as close to the skin as possible but do not shave as this can cause skin irritation.

• Clean your skin and pat it dry before applying the patch. Press the patch firmly and hold it in place for 30 seconds. This will help it stick better. If you are having trouble getting the patch to stick, you can apply first aid tape to the edges or a see-through dressing such as Tegarderm or Bioclusive over the patch. However, do not use any other type of covering dressing on the patch.

• If you are applying the fentanyl patch on a child, apply it on an area where the child cannot remove it, such as the back.

• Avoid allowing other people to come in contact with your fentanyl patch to prevent accidental exposure.

• Do not cut the fentanyl patch as this can cause too much of the medication to be released at once, putting you at risk of an overdose.

• Remember to change your patch every 72 hours. Do not apply a new patch to the same area to prevent skin irritation. 

• Make sure you understand how to safely dispose of used patches or unneeded fentanyl patches.