What Is a Fentanyl Patch?
The
fentanyl patch (
Duragesic®) is a very strong, long-acting prescription opioid narcotic used to treat moderate-to-severe chronic pain that is not adequately managed with other pain medications. It should only be used in people who are already tolerant to the effects of opioid pain medications, and only when around-the-clock (continuous) pain relief is needed.
The fentanyl patch is a Schedule II
controlled substance, which means there are strict laws and regulations controlling its use. Schedule II medications, such as fentanyl patches, are considered to have the highest potential for abuse.
Just like any medicine, the fentanyl patch can cause side effects.
However, not everyone who uses the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Weakness
- Sweating
- Pain and redness at the patch site.
(Click Fentanyl Patch Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
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