Fentanyl Skin Patches

Duragesic Logo

Brand name(s): Duragesic

How should this medicine be used?

Fentanyl skin patches are applied to the skin. The patch usually is changed every 3 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Apply fentanyl patches exactly as directed.

Fentanyl can be habit-forming. Do not apply a larger dose, apply it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to.

To apply the patch, follow the directions provided by the manufacturer and these steps:

• Select a clean, dry area of skin on your front or back, above the waist. Do not apply the patch to oily, broken, burned, cut, or irritated skin. To clean the skin area, use only clear water, no soap or alcohol. If the area is hairy, clip hair with scissors, but do not shave it. Be sure that the area is completely dry before applying the patch.
• Remove the skin patch from its protective pouch and peel off the protective strip, exposing the adhesive surface. Try not to touch the sticky side.
• Immediately place the adhesive side against the skin.
• Press the patch firmly, for about 10-20 seconds, with the palm of your hand. Be sure that the edges adhere to your skin.
• Wash your hands promptly with clear water.
• Apply each patch to a different skin area to avoid irritation. Remove the patch before applying another one.

If a patch accidentally comes off or if the skin under the patch becomes irritated, remove the patch and replace it with a new one in a different area; be sure that this new skin area is clean and dry.

Do not remove a skin patch from its protective pouch or remove the protective backing until just before applying it. Do not use a patch if the pouch or backing has been broken or damaged.

Dispose of all used (and any leftover unused) patches immediately. Fold each patch in half with the sticky sides together (after removing the protective strip from each unused patch), and flush it down the toilet.

Last Revised: 04/01/2003

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