Fentanyl Skin Patches Description

Generic Name : FENTANYL SKIN PATCHES

Pronunciation : (fen' ta nil)

Trade Name(s) :

Why it is prescribed: Fentanyl is used to manage the chronic pain of cancer and other conditions. It also has been used to relieve pain after surgery.

When it is to be taken: Fentanyl skin patches are applied once every three days. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully.

How it should be taken:
Fentanyl patches are applied to the skin. Follow the instructions provided and these steps:
1. Select a clean, dry areas of skin on your front or back, above the waist. Do not apply the patch to oily, broken, burned, cut, or irritated skin. To clean the skin area, use only clear water-no soap or alcohol. If the areas are hairy, clip this hair with a scissors but do not shave it. Be sure that the area is completely dry before applying the patch.
2. Remove the skin patch from its protective pouch and peel off the protective strip, exposing the adhesive surface. Try not to touch the sticky side.
3. Immediately place the adhesive side against the skin.
4. Press the patch firmly, for about 10 to 20 seconds, with the palm of your hand. Be sure that the edges adhere to your skin.
5. Wash your hands promptly.
Apply each patch to a different skin area to avoid irritation. If a patch accidentally comes off or if the skin under the patch becomes irritated, remove the patch and replace it with a new one in a different area. Be sure that this new skin area is clean and dry. Do not remove a skin patch from its protective pouch or remove the protective backing until just before applying it. Do not use a patch if the pouch or backing has been broken or damaged. Dispose of all used patches immediately. Fold each patch in half with the sticky sides together and flush it down the toilet.

Special Instruction :
1. Do not apply fentanly more often or for a longer period than as directed without consulting your doctor. If you continue to have pain, contact your doctor. Your doctor may change your dose from time to time to control your pain properly.
2. This drug may decrease mental alertness. Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how it affects you.
3. Alcoholic beverages and fentanyl can affect each other, causing unpleasant side effects.
4. Fentanyl comes in a sealed system containing a gel. If any gel in the skin patch accidentally contacts your hands or body, wash the area immediately with large amounts of water. Do not use soap, alcohol, or other solvents.
5. You may bathe or swim while wearing a fentanyl skin patch.

Side Effects :
1. Skin redness, irritation, or itching. Use a different site for each patch. If these effects are severe or persist for more than a day, contact your doctor.
2. Drowsiness, dizziness. Lie down for a while. If these effects persist, contact your doctor.
3. Headache, chest pain, confusion, nervousness, sweating, constipation, nausea, vomiting, difficulty urinating. Contact your doctor.
4. Difficulty breathing. Call your doctor immediately or take to hospital emergency department.

Other Precautions :
1. If you are allergic to fentanyl or any other medication or to adhesives, tell your doctor before you apply a fentanyl skin patch.
2. Tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, particularly monoaminooxidase inhibitors phenelzine, isocarboxazid, and tranylcypromine, even if you stopped taking them in the last two weeks.
3. Do not take pain relievers, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, antidepressants, sedatives, or any other medications within 24 hours after using fentanyl skin patches unless your doctor tells you to do so.
4. If you develop a fever while using fentanyl, notify your doctor. Your dose may need to be adjusted while you have the fever.
5. Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart, kidney, or liver disease; asthma or difficulty breathing; or drug or alcohol abuse.
6. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should inform their doctors before using fentanyl.
7. Do not allow anyone else to use your medication; it is against the law.

Storage Conditions : Keep both used and unused skin patches out of the reach of children. Store them at room temperature, away from excess heat.