What Are the Dangers of Fentanyl Patch?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain. The most common form of fentanyl is a patch. The patch is stuck to the skin and the drug is slowly administered transdermally. Fentanyl patches have side effects that range from adverse reactions to overdose.

Function

• Fentanyl is a strong pain reliever that enters the skin and quickly attaches to mu receptors in the brain. Mu receptors are opiate receptors that depress the central nervous system and reduce the amount of pain.

Tolerance

• Fentanyl is used in patients who are considered opioid-tolerant. Patients who are not already using pain medication can easily overdose on fentanyl patches. According to the University of Maryland, fentanyl should only be given to patients who are currently taking daily doses of morphine (60 mg), oxycontin (30 mg) or hydrocodone (8 mg).

Overdose

• Too much fentanyl can lead to respiratory depression. Fentanyl overdose can occur if the patient applies two patches at the same time or if the patch breaks and the liquid is absorbed into the skin. Respiratory depression can lead to cardiac arrest.

Digestion and Dermatology

• Opiate medication slows the digestive function of the gastrointestinal tract. Patients who use fentanyl patches may experience constipation, nausea and vomiting. Dermatological dangers include erythema, papules, pruritus and rash.

Dangers

• Fentanyl is a powerful pain medication that can lead to central nervous system and respiratory depression, weakness, breathing difficulties and possible cardiac arrest. People who take dangerous amounts of fentanyl may lose consciousness and their skin turn a bluish pale color. Contact emergency medical services if observation of these symptoms occur.