Fentanyl, marketed under the brand name Duragesic, is an opium-derived narcotic used to treat chronic pain. Fentanyl is a class II prescription medication; it has a high potential for tolerance, dependence and addiction. It is, therefore, prescribed to persons already tolerant to opiate medications, such as morphine. The most commonly prescribed form, a transdermal patch that continually releases medication through the skin, can cause a variety of side effects, some severe, that may be heightened when taken in conjunction with other medications.
Common
Fentanyl can cause gastrointestinal side effects including nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea. Skin reactions at the site of the patch application, including rash, itching and swelling, are also common. Because Fentanyl attaches to the opiate receptors in the body affecting Dopamine (a neurotransmitter in the brain important for cognition, movement and moods) levels, it causes mood swings, dizziness and drowsiness. Other common side effects include headache, dry mouth and muscle or bone pain.
Allergic Reaction
Fentanyl can induce an allergic reaction in some patients which may be severe and require immediate medication attention. The symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or face and swelling of the throat that can inhibit breathing.
Respiratory
One of the most severe side effects of Fentanyl is hypoventilation. Hypoventilation occurs when breathing is so slow that there is not an adequate exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. This can lead to death if not treated immediately. The incidence of hypoventilation is only 2 percent, according to a study conducted at the College of Pharmacy at Washington State University; however, the risk of this side effect can be increased if it taken with any other central nervous system depressant such as a sedative.
Addiction
Patients taking Fentanyl should be monitored closely by medical professionals. Do not take Fentanyl longer than prescribed, and do not take it in higher doses than recommended. Fentanyl is highly addictive, and addiction can lead to withdrawal side effects including sweating, nausea, vomiting, runny nose, yawning, restlessness, weakness, cramps, irritability and agitation. Withdrawal symptoms may become severe and can even lead to seizures.
The Fentanyl pain patch is sensitive to heat, so patients are advised to not use any electric blankets or heating pads while on the patch. They should also not go into a hot tub or sauna with the patch on. Increased heat can cause the patch to release too much medication, resulting in either overdose or an increased risk of addiction.
