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The Duragesic Patch is a patch worn for pain relief. The patch releases pain-relieving medicine into the bloodstream. In 2004, the FDA released a recall concerning one batch of Duragesic Patches. These patches were not properly sealed along one edge, and were releasing medication too quickly.

The Duragesic Patch is designed for long-term pain relief and should only be used in patients who were already taking a strong dose of a narcotic analgesic for at least a week. This prepares the patient’s body for the Duragesic Patch, which is also a narcotic analgesic.

If an overdose occurs, the patient is at extreme risk of death due to respiratory depression, which is when the patient cannot get enough oxygen to the lungs. To avoid overdose and injury, patients should use the Duragesic Patch only:

• for chronic pain
• if they have used another narcotic analgesic for at least a week
• if the patch is not damaged in any way
• if the patient is opioid tolerant (not allergic)
• if they are older than 2 years of age
• if they understand the great health risks of taking the patch

• you haven’t been taking another narcotic analgesic for at least a week
• you have short-term pain
• if you have acute asthma or severe asthma
• if you have a gastrointestinal problem called paralytic ileus
• if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the patch
• you have a fever, because the patch may release too much medication during this time

The patch can harm your unborn baby and babies who are breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing. You should avoid using heat sources like heating pads or getting in the hot tub, because the patch will release too much medication. You should avoid drinking alcohol, operating heavy machinery, driving a car, and stopping the medication too suddenly. Talk to your doctor if you want to quit using the patch, because your body will have developed a dependence on the patch. Do not take other medications or herbal remedies without talking to your doctor.

Serious signs that should prompt you to call your doctor immediately include:

·        shortness of breath

·        having trouble breathing

·        drowsiness and trouble breathing

·        feeling faint, dizzy, confused or other unusual symptoms

If you are injured by the Duragesic Patch, contact a personal injury lawyer immediately.