Narcotic pain relievers are useful for treating severe and chronic pain. Fentanyl is an extremely potent narcotic medication that can be delivered using patches, which cause the medication to be absorbed through the skin. If used improperly, fentanyl patches can be deadly.
Risks
Fentanyl patches contain an extremely potent narcotic medication that can be fatal if too much of it is absorbed into the body at once. Patients who have a fever or who have their patches exposed to heat may have too much of the medication released into their bodies at once, the Food and Drug Administration explains.
Damaged Patches
Fentanyl transdermal patches are designed to gradually release the medication into the bloodstream, MedlinePlus notes. Patients who use torn or damaged patches may be exposed to abnormally high amounts of the medication, which can lead to an accidental overdose. The use of multiple patches may also be fatal.
Overdose Symptoms
An overdose of fentanyl can lead to acute respiratory depression, resulting in slowed or impaired breathing. Other symptoms of a fentanyl overdose include a slowed heartbeat, extreme sleepiness, cold or clammy skin, and problems walking. An overdose is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
