Duragesic (fentanyl citrate) is a transdermal patch that contains an opioid pain reliever that is absorbed through the skin. Duragesic, or fentanyl, is a very potent opioid that is used to treat chronic moderate to severe pain in patients who have shown tolerance to other opioid pain relievers. The Duragesic patch delivers a continuous dose of fentanyl for a 72-hour period. Pediatric side effects differ from those that adult patients experience. Only adult-related side effects will be listed; refer to the NIH reference provided below for pediatric side effects.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
The National Institute of Health advises that the degree of central nervous system side effects is dose dependent. Sedation, dizziness, euphoria and delirium may occur. Convulsions are also possible with high doses of Duragesic. Other side effects reported by the NIH include weakness, uncoordination, anxiety and confusion.
Cardiovascular System Side Effects
According to the NIH, it is possible for Duragesic to produce bradycardia (slow heart rate). Hypotension (low blood pressure) may also occur, and if circulatory depression is allowed to continue, cardiac arrest could result. Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythm) and chest pain have also been reported with Duragesic use.
Respiratory System Side Effects
The NIH emphasizes the danger of respiratory depression or respiratory arrest when taking Duragesic. First-time users and patients taking other agents that depress the respiratory system need to use extreme caution and be closely monitored.
Other respiratory system side effects include bronchoconstriction (narrowing of the airways), laryngospasm (SeeReferences2), cough, shortness of breath, rhinitis, and sinusitis (SeeReferences1).
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Duragesic may cause nausea, vomiting and constipation. Dry mouth, indigestion, decreased appetite and diarrhea may affect some users.
Dermatologic Side Effects
Rash and localized skin irritation from the Duragesic patch may occur.
General Side Effects
Duragesic may affect the body as a whole in the following ways: muscle rigidity, rigors (violent shaking), headache, abdominal pain, back ache, flu-like symptoms and fever.
Warnings
Duragesic is a very powerful pain reliever. Do not drive or attempt any activity that requires alertness; do not take with other narcotic analgesics or alcohol. Concomitant use of Duragesic with monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressants may lead to hypertensive crisis (dangerously high blood pressure).
References
- National Institute of Health
- Wilson, B. A., Shannon, T. M., & Shields, K. M. (2010). Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide 2010. New York: Pearson.
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