Duragesic

Overview

About Duragesic

Brand name:

Duragesic

Generic name: Fentanyl

Why is Duragesic prescribed?

Duragesic patches deliver a continuous dose of the potent narcotic painkiller fentanyl for a period of three days. The patches are prescribed for chronic pain when short-acting narcotics and other types of painkillers fail to provide relief.

Most important fact about Duragesic

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When wearing a Duragesic patch, check with your doctor before taking any other drugs that slow the nervous system. The combined effect can impair breathing, reduce blood pressure, and lead to coma. Drugs in this category include the following:

Antidepressants such as nefazodone

Antipsychotic drugs such as chlorpromazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine, and trifluoperazine

Muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine, metaxalone, and methocarbamol

Narcotic painkillers such as hydrocodone bitartrate, and meperidine, oxycodone

Sleep aids such as triazolam, and zaleplon, zolpidem

Sleep-inducing antihistamines such as diphenhydramine and promethazine

Tranquilizers such as alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, and lorazepam

Alcoholic beverages

How should you take Duragesic?

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Apply the patch to a flat surface such as the chest, back, side, or upper arm. Children should have the patch applied to their upper back to discourage them from removing it. Hair at the site should be clipped (but not shaved). If the skin needs to be washed, use clear water. Do not use soaps, oils, lotions, alcohol, or any other cleanser that could irritate the skin. Allow the skin to dry completely.

Apply the patch as soon as you open the sealed package. Do not cut or tear the patch. Press it firmly in place with the palm of your hand for 30 seconds. Make sure that contact with the skin is complete, especially around the edges.

After 3 days (72 hours), remove the patch, fold the adhesive side together, and flush the patch down the toilet.