Fentanyl 25 is a thin, adhesive patch that is worn on the skin to provide pain relief for individuals who experience moderate to severe chronic pain, according to the Physicians' Desktop Reference (PDR). The patch contains a combination of medicines including narcotics, short-acting narcotics and non-narcotic pain products, as indicated by the PDR. Specific narcotics include opioids like morphine, hydromorphone, methadone, oxycodone and oxymorphone. Narcotic drugs can have numerous side effects.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, patients should report these side effects to their doctor immediately. They may be common, but they are still considered serious: reduced amount of urine or frequency of urination, and hallucinations.
Less-Common Side Effects
Other serious side effects, reported by Drugs.com, include chest pain, trouble speaking, fainting, mood or mental changes, trouble walking or spitting blood. It is possible to have a sensitivity to the patch adhesive as well as the medication. Signs of irritation include redness, swelling, itching and bumps on the skin. The PDR also indicates users may experience constipation that is mild or severe, excessive sweating, nausea, drowsiness, vomiting or dry mouth.
Serious Side Effects
Drugs.com states several serious side effects that may occur. The rate of occurrence is unknown, but these effects include bloating or swelling of the face, hands, lower legs or feet. Rapid or pounding heart rate and rapid, unexplainable weight gain can also be possible serious hazards of the fentanyl patch.
Overdose Symptoms
An overdose can occur when the patch is accidentally or intentionally misused. The pain medication can also build up in the body if it does not metabolize correctly. This can be the result of liver problems, drug interactions or other health concerns. Symptoms of overdose include cold or clammy skin, convulsions or drowsiness that is so intense that the individual does not respond to speaking or cannot be awakened. Drugs.com also indicates individuals may experience a reduction in blood pressure, reduced heartbeat and very slow or troubled breathing.
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