How should I use fentanyl transdermal skin patches?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger or smaller amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. MISUSE OF A FENTANYL SKIN PATCH CAN CAUSE HARMFUL OR FATAL SIDE EFFECTS.

Read all patient instructions carefully before using a fentanyl transdermal skin patch. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.

If the skin must be washed before you apply a skin patch, use clear water only. Allow the skin to dry completely before applying the patch.

Do not use soaps, oils, lotions, alcohol, or other chemicals on the skin where you will apply a fentanyl transdermal skin patch. These substances could increase the amount of fentanyl that your skin absorbs, possibly causing harmful effects.

Apply the skin patch to a flat, dry, hairless area of the chest, back, side, or outer side of your upper arm. To remove any hair from these areas, clip the hair short but do not shave it. Press the patch firmly with the palm of your hand for 30 seconds. Make sure the patch is sticking firmly, especially around the edges. You may wear the patch for up to 72 hours. Never wear more than 1 fentanyl transdermal skin patch at a time.

After removing a skin patch fold it in half, sticky side in, and flush the patch down the toilet. Apply a new patch to a different skin area on the chest, back, side, or upper arm. Do not use the same skin area twice in a row.

Do not use a fentanyl transdermal skin patch if it has been cut or damaged. Doing so could expose you to too much fentanyl, which can cause a life-threatening overdose.

Store the skin patches at room temperature. Keep each patch in its foil pouch until you are ready to use it. Keep both used and unused fentanyl transdermal patches out of the reach of children or pets. The amount of fentanyl in a used skin patch could be fatal to a child or pet who accidentally sucks on or swallows the unit. Seek emergency medical attention if this happens.

Keep track of how many skin patches have been used from each new package of this medicine. Fentanyl is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since fentanyl transdermal is used as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are using the skin patches regularly, apply the missed patch as soon as you remember. Continue wearing the patch for up to 72 hours and then apply a new one if needed for pain. Do not wear extra patches to make up a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine or if anyone has accidentally swallowed it. A fentanyl overdose can be fatal. Overdose symptoms may include slow breathing, extreme weakness or dizziness, pinpoint pupils, cold and clammy skin, or fainting.

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