Re: Transdermal Pain Patch

December 28, 2004

Norman,

I was on the Duragesic patches for about a year. I thought that they

worked pretty well, compared to the oral drugs. I found a few things

that might interest you though.

For me they didn't last for the full duration that the manufacturer

said that they would, so I changed them 1 day early. The dose was

very strong on the first day and then noticably declined on the

subsequent days. I was very sensitive to the dose because, like all

of the other systemic opiates, they made me pretty sick. So I wanted

just enough for my pain and no more. Later when my dose was raised I

used 2 patches instead of one bigger one and I staggered them so

that each patch was on for 4 days but I changed 1 patch every 2

days. This worked pretty well at evening out the dose. Of course

there are other combinations that you could try.

I found that they irritated my skin a little, so I had to move them

around, mostly on my upper arms. They don't always stick very well.

I used adhesive tape, but I have since heard that the manufacturer

will send a better bandage to put over them if you ask their

customer support.

There are also some Fentanyl lolly pops (Actiq) that are absorbed

through the mucous membranes in your mounth when you suck on them.

Your doctor may not want to give you these, but mine did for

breakthrough pain. They worked very well.

Finally, like a lot of this stuff, they are expensive.

Hope this helps you and your wife,

Dave

Norman wrote: [snip] Fentanyl transdermal patch. Doe anyone have any

experience with using that type of patch?

December 29, 2004

Hi,

I have been using the patch for a few years. It's been wonderful for me,

mostly because I would forget to take my medication. With the patch the

medication is delivered thru the skin. Sometimes the patch/medication can

cause

itching. This is because it is a narcotic and this can be a side effect. If

you need more information let me know. Sometimes people have trouble with the

patch sticking but there are ways to help that.

Kathleen in NC

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