DURAGESIC

Drug Name: DURAGESIC

DURAGESIC DESCRIPTION:
FENTANYL - TRANSDERMAL (FEN-tuh-nill)

COMMON DURAGESIC BRAND NAME(S):
Duragesic

DURAGESIC SIDE EFFECTS:
DURAGESIC may cause constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, stomach upset, nausea or flushing the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor Notify your doctor if you develop: irregular heartbeat, anxiety, tremors. If the area around the patch becomes red, itchy or irritated, try a new site. If the irritation continues or becomes worse, contact your doctor. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE DURAGESIC:
DURAGESIC: The patch should be applied to a clean, dry area on the upper arm or back. If necessary, clip hair from the site prior to applying the patch. Remove the patch from the package, peel off the protective strip and immediately apply it to the site. Press firmly for 10 to 20 seconds to make sure the patch stays in place. Be sure the edges are held firmly to the skin. Wash your hands after applying the patch. Each patch may be worn continually for 72 hours even while showering or bathing. Remove the patch carefully and immediately flush it down the toilet. Apply each new patch to a different area to prevent skin irritation. Use DURAGESIC exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because DURAGESIC can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period of time, do not suddenly stop using DURAGESIC without your doctor's approval. Over time, DURAGESIC may not work as well. Consult your doctor if DURAGESIC is not relieving the pain sufficiently.

DURAGESIC WARNING:
Because serious (even fatal) breathing problems can occur, do not use DURAGESIC for: short-term pain; pain occurring after surgery; for mild or infrequent pain (on-and-off pain) relieved by less powerful pain medications. Do not use more fentanyl than prescribed by your doctor. The stronger doses of fentanyl (50mcg/hr or stronger) are for use only in patients that are already using narcotics for pain relief. Do not use DURAGESIC in children less than 12 years old nor in children less than 18 years that weigh less than 110lbs (50kg) except in a research setting. DURAGESIC should be used only for long-term (chronic) pain requiring continuous narcotic pain relief that is not helped by other less powerful pain medications or less frequent dosing. Seek immediate medical attention in the unlikely event that very slow, shallow breathing occurs.

DURAGESIC USES:
DURAGESIC is a narcotic analgesic used to relieve chronic pain.

DURAGESIC PRECAUTIONS:
Before using DURAGESIC, tell your doctor your medical history especially of: heart or lung disease, asthma, ulcers, glaucoma, difficulty urinating, enlarged prostate, high blood pressure, low thyroid function, any drug allergies. Use caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcohol consumption because it may add to the dizziness/drowsiness effects of this drug. Do not allow any heat source to warm the patch as it may cause the drug to be released too quickly. DURAGESIC should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Fentanyl passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Therefore, do not breast-feed without first consulting your doctor.

DURAGESIC DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: sleeping pills, sedatives, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, medication for depression or seizures, narcotic pain medication, cimetidine, medications for colds/allergies or hay fever. Tell your doctor you are taking DURAGESIC before undergoing any procedure requiring anesthesia. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

DURAGESIC OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, remove the patch. Contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include slow, shallow breathing; drowsiness; deep sleep or loss of consciousness; cold, clammy skin; and slow heart rate.

DURAGESIC NOTES:
To prevent constipation, increase your intake of fiber, drink plenty of water and exercise. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. Any unused patches should be destroyed by flushing them down the toilet.

MISSED DURAGESIC DOSE:
Skin patches offer the convenience of continuous dosing. If you should forget to replace a patch at the scheduled time, replace it as soon as you remember. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

DURAGESIC STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom.