Duragesic and skin irritation

March 5, 2004

Dear Cindy,

I am so glad it sounds like the Fentenyal Patch may help Dylan. I know it's

been a lifesaver for me! I change mine every 48 hours which worked much, much

better for me.

Up until recently I haven't had much problems with skin irritation with the

patch. I have been using it for a good 5+ years now and have learned many

tricks.

1. Don't put it on any area of skin that crimps. Like the stomach or sides.

I would actually get cuts around the patch edges.

2. Stay away from areas that get a lot of skin stretching. Like tops of

shoulders.

3. To get off easily use Goo Gone (can be purchased in cleaning depts. of

supermarkets and dept. stores.) Put some on hand and rub over patch area. Glue

under patch will loosen. Once you can remove the patch you can add a bit more to

remove any residue on the skin. Then wash area with soap and water.

I change my patch locations seasonally. In the winter I use the mostly my

upper arms and in the summer my lower back.

Recently I have developed an on and off problem with a prickly painful

small bump rash after I take the patch off. I have been blaming it on my spa and

the chemicals but I really don't know whats going on. When I bought it up to my

pain doc he suggested using I think hydrocortisone creme on the area first,

letting it completely dry in, before putting the patch on. Have to say I haven't

tried it yet since the rash stopped but it has recently started again so I will

try it now.

It would be just my luck that the two best things for my condition - the

spa and the patch - don't play well together!

Hope this helps!

Hugs,

B.

HEDS, New Jersey, USA

Recommended Posts