Fentanyl patches are used to treat severe long-term pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments or medications. They are applied to the skin and left in place for 72 hours, delivering the powerful narcotic pain medicine, Fentanyl, through the skin. It is only available through a prescription, and should be used carefully and as directed to minimize unwanted effects.
Beneficial Effects
Fentanyl works on the body’s central nervous system to provide pain relief in individuals with severe pain which requires treatment 24 hours a day. It specifically works by dulling the brain’s pain center. It can also produce sedation, which may be particularly helpful if pain interferes with the patient’s ability to sleep.
Mild Side Effects
There are many side effects related to the use of Fentanyl patches. Drugs.com notes that the most common side effects are dizziness, headache, constipation or diarrhea, decreased appetite, anxiety, irritation on the skin at the application site and sleeplessness. Not all patients experience these side effects. Those who do should consult with the prescribing physician to discuss alternatives or ways to deal with these side effects.
Serious Side Effects
Drugs.com explains that difficulty breathing, swelling of the mouth, chest pain and tightness and coughing up blood can occur. Additionally, breathing and heart rates can become very slow or irregular. Memory loss has been known to occur with the use of this medication, and other problems, such as fainting, fever and flu-like symptoms, also indicate a serious reaction. Patients should consult with a physician immediately if any of these side effects are experienced.
Dependency, Tolerance and Withdrawal
Like any controlled substance, Fentanyl patches carry the risk of causing dependency. Doctors must help patients weigh the risks and benefits of using this medication, especially if dependency develops. DrugAbuseHelp.com notes that for some individuals, it may be necessary to live with a dependency on Fentanyl patches if they do work to control pain. Tolerance can also be an effect caused by Fentanyl, where larger doses become necessary to produce the same pain-relieving effect of the medication. Any patient who wishes to stop using Fentanyl patches should consult a doctor to establish a weaning process to help avoid developing withdrawal from the drug.
