Fentanyl Patches
€238.00 – €480.00
Fentanyl patches are a transdermal opioid pain medication used to manage severe, long-term pain that requires continuous relief. They deliver fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, directly through the skin into the bloodstream over a period of 72 hours.
These patches are only prescribed for patients who are opioid-tolerant and have chronic pain conditions that cannot be managed with other pain medications.
Uses of Fentanyl Patches
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Chronic Pain Management:
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Used for patients with cancer pain, severe back pain, or terminal illnesses.
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Often prescribed in palliative care or hospice settings.
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Opioid-Tolerant Patients:
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Only given to individuals who have been on high-dose opioids for a long time.
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Not recommended for first-time opioid users due to overdose risks.
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How Fentanyl Patches Work
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The patch slowly releases fentanyl through the skin into the bloodstream.
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It provides continuous pain relief for up to 72 hours, reducing the need for frequent dosing.
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Works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain signals and inducing a sedative, euphoric effect.
Common Brand Names & Variants
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Duragesic (Brand-name fentanyl patch)
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Generic fentanyl transdermal system
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Available in doses of 12 mcg/hr, 25 mcg/hr, 50 mcg/hr, 75 mcg/hr, and 100 mcg/hr
Dosage & Administration
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The patch is applied to clean, dry, non-irritated skin (chest, back, side, or upper arm).
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It should be replaced every 72 hours (some patients may require 48-hour replacement).
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Do not cut or tamper with the patch, as it can release too much fentanyl at once.
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Avoid heat exposure (hot showers, heating pads), which can increase fentanyl absorption and lead to overdose.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
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Drowsiness & dizziness
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Nausea, vomiting, & constipation
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Sweating & itching at the patch site
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Dry mouth
Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention):
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Respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing)
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Severe sedation or unconsciousness
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Confusion, hallucinations, or mood changes
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Overdose symptoms (pinpoint pupils, cold skin, slowed breathing)
Warnings & Precautions
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High Risk of Overdose & Death
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Fentanyl is extremely potent and should never be used by opioid-naïve patients.
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Accidental exposure (especially in children) can be fatal.
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Addiction & Dependence
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Long-term use can lead to physical dependence & withdrawal symptoms.
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Heat Sensitivity
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Avoid hot showers, saunas, or heating pads while wearing the patch.
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Drug Interactions
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Avoid mixing with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants, which can increase overdose risk.
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Overdose Risk & Treatment
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Overdose Symptoms:
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Severe respiratory depression (slow or stopped breathing)
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Extreme drowsiness or unconsciousness
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Cold, clammy skin & pinpoint pupils
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Transdermal Film | 15 film of 12 mcg/hr, 15 film of 25 mcg/hr, 15 film of 37.5 mcg/hr, 15 film of 50 mcg/hr, 15 film of 62.5 mcg/hr, 15 film of 75 mcg/hr, 15 film of 87.5 mcg/hr, 15 film of 100 mcg/hr |
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