Fentanyl is a narcotic drug that can treat chronic pain. One of the ways fentanyl is taken is through a transdermal patch worn on the body. The continuous release of medicine is absorbed through the skin. Because the fentanyl pain patch is a strong narcotic, the possibility of addiction is real. People using transdermal fentanyl should discuss a "step-down" approach to stopping the medication to avoid unpleasant side effects. During use, fentanyl may cause some less-than-savory symptoms, many of which are not serious and disappear as the person adjusts to the drug.
Urinary Changes
The Mayo Clinic reports that some people who use a fentanyl pain patch may notice changes in their urinary habits. These side effects can include a lower-than-normal daily output of urine or needing to use the bathroom fewer times than usual. Urinary changes could signify potentially serious complications and should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Neurological Side Effects
A long list of neurological side effects may occur in some people who use fentanyl for pain relief. Symptoms that are common and typically not a reason for worry include confusion, anxiety, dizziness, nervousness and restlessness, according to Drugs.com. Side effects that can be more serious and warrant a call to the doctor include mood changes, visual, auditory or tactile hallucinations and fainting.
Skin Irritation
The application site of the fentanyl pain patch can cause irritate the skin in some people. Swelling, redness, itching and raised bumps may all occur. People who experience these side effects should talk to their doctor about a possible allergy to the medication. The doctor may be able to suggest alternate locations on the body where the patch can be placed that may not become irritated.
Gastrointestinal Complaints
The fentanyl patch can cause digestive issues, including indigestion, nausea, constipation or diarrhea. Though these symptoms may be bothersome, they are not usually serious in nature. Speak to your doctor if your gastrointestinal problems do not dissipate over time.
Sexual Side Effects
The Mayo Clinic reports that some fentanyl users experience sexual side effects, but the percentage of patients in this group is not known. A decrease in libido, inability to sustain an erection and changes in semen production may occur.
Signs of Overdose
An overdose of fentanyl is very serious and must be attended to immediately. Signs of an overdose are feeling clammy, having seizures, becoming so tired that others cannot wake you, low blood pressure and pulse and slowed breathing. The pupils of the eyes may become tiny as well if too much fentanyl has absorbed into the skin.
