Fentanyl patch: how to take it safely
Durogesic
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Relieves severe, long-term pain.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Stick one patch to clean, dry, hairless skin on the upper body.
- Press for 30 seconds. Change the spot each time.
- Fold used patches in half, sticky sides together, and dispose of them safely.
When to take it
Change the patch every 3 days (72 hours), at the same time.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Alcohol, sleeping tablets and sedatives, which can slow your breathing.
- Driving or using machines.
- Stopping suddenly after long use.
- Taking more than prescribed or sharing it.
- Heat on the patch, such as hot water bottles, electric blankets, saunas or a hot bath, and fever. These can release too much medicine.
- Cutting the patch.
- Letting children or pets touch the patch.
Possible side effects
Constipation, drowsiness, nausea, sweating.
Get help if
Slow or shallow breathing, extreme sleepiness, confusion or fainting: get emergency help. Constipation lasting several days: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.