A study published in the journal "Pain" revealed that subjects using fentanyl patches were able to exercise and experienced less low back pain and better function than subjects taking a placebo. If you suffer from chronic pain, fentanyl might be helpful to get you up and exercising again. Because the medication is a narcotic, it does have side effects. If you are using fentanyl and want to exercise, consult your doctor first.
Considerations
Fentanyl has many of the same side effects as other narcotic pain relievers. It can make you drowsy, dizzy, and constipated. Fentanyl is available in several forms, but the most widely used for outpatients is the Duragesic patch, due to the convenience of the delivery method. The patch adheres to your skin, and the medication is delivered slowly, providing constant pain relief.
Digestion
Fentanyl and other narcotics have digestive system side effects. Narcotic pain killers slow the contraction of your intestines, which moves waste products through your body. Regular exercise, which promotes intestinal contraction, can counteract this side effect. Walking even 10 to 15 minutes daily can be beneficial to your digestive system processes.
Absorption Rate
Exercise can affect your metabolic rate, therefore affecting the absorption rate of your medication. Additionally, exercise raises the temperature of your skin, which increases the amount of fentanyl delivered through the patch to your system. When this occurs, the dose of medication you receive can potentially result in side effects. Discuss your intent to exercise with your doctor. She may want to adjust your dose on days when you will be involved in physical activities and exercise.
Exercise Safety
Hopefully, fentanyl will improve the way you feel and you will be able to exercise again. Remember that the medication can cause dizziness, so if you are going to use a treadmill or other exercise machines, use caution, Even better, ask someone to exercise with you in case you need help at any time. According to the manufacturer, you can wear your patch in the shower and while swimming. If your patch falls off, simply put on a new patch at a different skin site.
