Duragesic/Fentanyl Pain Patch Safety
The recent recall of Duragesic and other Fentanyl pain patches have brought to light safety concerns regarding the highly potent drug.
The U.S. Food and Drug Association is investigating the reported deaths of patients using Duragesic and Fentanyl patches. A precautionary recall has been issued for all 25 microgram/hour Duragesic and Fentanyl patches with expiration dates on or before December 2009.
For all patients that are not affected by the recall and choose to continue using Duragesic or Fentanyl patches, consider the following safety information:
- Prescriptions for Fentanyl should always be the lowest dose needed
- Duragesic or Fentanyl patches should only be used by those suffering from chronic pain and who are not currently taking other narcotic painkillers
- Follow the directions of doctors and pharmacists exactly
- Store in a safe place away from children
Duragesic and Fentanyl patches are a very strong prescription narcotic. Serious side effects, such as respiratory depression and death by overdose are possible if not administered properly or damaged patches are used.
Watch for the following signs of an overdose:
- Shallow and/or troubled breathing
- Extreme tiredness, sleepiness or sedation
- Inability to talk, walk or think normally
- Feeling confused
- Feeling faint or dizzy
If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
If you or a loved one has suffered serious or fatal illness from damaged Duragesic or Fentanyl pain patches, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a Duragesic attorney at Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP at 1-800-460-0606. An experienced Fentanyl attorney will be able to evaluate if you are eligible to seek compensation.