Fentanyl is a powerful narcotic painkiller, which can cause serious side effects and even death if given in too large a dose. A product called Fentanyl Transdermal Patch (skin patch) is used for people in chronic or extreme pain; the patch is placed on the skin so that a slow, continuous dosage is supposed to be released. Unfortunately, the Fentanyl skin patch can be very dangerous if it is not properly used; it can cause death or serious side effects. Many people who use the fentanyl patch are unaware of the dangers. Both the generic and the brand name (Duragesic) fentanyl patch are dangerous.

Effects of Fentanyl

Too much fentanyl can lead to respiratory distress (trouble breathing), and eventual death. Fentanyl can cause an extreme, sudden drop in blood pressure; this is very dangerous. Nausea, vomiting, confusion, weakness, sweating, dry mouth, sleepiness, and constipation are common side effects of fentanyl. It has been known to cause seizures in children.

Fentanyl is a powerful, federally-controlled substance. It can cause physical addiction.
Signs of possible Fentanyl overdose (Duragesic overdose)
Call for emergency medical help if a person taking Fentanyl experiences any of the following symptoms:
· Trouble breathing
· Shortness of breath—characterized by less movement of the chest
· Extreme sleepiness and slowed breathing
· Dizziness
· Confusion
· Feeling faint or fainting
· Sudden drop in blood pressure

These are symptoms of a possible overdose of Fentanyl. They must be treated immediately to avoid serious consequences or even death.
If you or someone you loved has suffered adverse side effects while using the Fentanyl patch, you may be eligible for financial compensation for your suffering and medical expenses. A product liability attorney can help you understand your legal rights and receive just compensation. Do not delay. Contact Newsome today. Fill out our convenient case evaluation form located at the right of the screen and one of our experienced product liability attorneys will advise you on your rights and help you get appropriate compensation.

Things to know before using the Fentanyl Patch

People who are not opioid-tolerant must never use the Fentanyl patch. Opioid- tolerant means that you have been taking narcotic pain medicine every day, at certain set intervals throughout the day and night, for a week or more. This means that you have been taking at least 30 mg of oral oxycodone daily, or at least 60 mg of oral morphine daily, or at least 8 mg of oral hydromorphine daily or the equivalent dose of some other opioid daily. Children must also have been taking these amounts for a week or more before they are considered opioid-tolerant. Remember that not being opioid tolerant can lead to serious effects from the Fentanyl patch.

The Fentanyl patch is only for people who need round- the-clock, strong pain relieve for chronic (not temporary) pain. It should not be used on an as needed basis. It is only for people over age two and extreme caution should be used when using it on children; children using the Fentanyl patch must be opioid-tolerant.

Heat from any source, including your body can cause the Fentanyl patch to release more quickly and lead to overdosing. This means that if you experience fever while using the patch you should immediately consult your doctor to see if you need a lower dosage of Fentanyl during the fever. Damage to the patch can also cause the medication to release too quickly and damaged patches should be removed immediately and replaced.

There are many medications which should not be taken when using the Fentanyl patch; before using Fentanyl consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding any medication you are currently taking. People with any of the following problems should discuss them with their doctor before using the Fentanyl patch (or using Fentanyl in another form):

· Respiratory problems of any kind—asthma, COPD, etc.
· Brain or head injury
· Slow heart beat (bradycardia)
· Any other type of heart problem
· Seizures
· Gallbladder trouble
· Low thyroid (hypothyroidism)
· Low blood pressure
· Problems urinating
· Major depression or hallucinations
· Adrenal gland problems (Addison’s disease, etc.)
· History of addiction to drugs or alcohol or a family history of addiction
· Skin allergies to the glues used in the Fentanyl patch (Duragesic)
· Pregnancy—Fentanyl may harm your unborn baby
· Breastfeeding—Fentanyl will pass into your milk and can harm the baby

If you or someone you loved has suffered adverse side effects while using the Fentanyl patch, you may be eligible for financial compensation for your suffering and medical expenses. A product liability attorney can help you understand your legal rights and receive just compensation. Do not delay. Contact Newsome today. Fill out our convenient case evaluation form located at the right of the screen and one of our experienced product liability attorneys will advise you on your rights and help you get appropriate compensation.