onyxgates
01-03-2007, 09:41 AM
I have noticed a pattern that every 3 days my pain shoots up to an 8. On the first day I am at a 5 or 6, the second day a 6 or 7 and the third day it is up to an 8. Now I can't say for sure this happens every time but it sure seems like it lately. So my question is this...How many of you switch every 72 hrs vs. every 48 hrs. Please respond as I am going to see my doctor tomorrow.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Sponsor
whitfield
01-03-2007, 10:49 AM
I have been on the Fentanyl Patch now for 3 years--100Mcg--told my doc they really only last 2 days--which is true, so he prescribes percocet--works for me--He would give me more patches, but my insurance will only pay for 10/month! Hope this helps--
Roger
Roger
kim4074
01-03-2007, 12:47 PM
My fiance goes through the same thing with his patches. He finds that they only really work for about 48hrs. Sometimes he changes them early cause the pain is just too much but then he is short at the end of the month and like the above poster he can only get 10/mo. He is given lortab 10/500 to take for the breakthrough. He told his Dr about this and he said on the 3rd day to just up his Lortab. Not sure if thats the best but for right now thats all he can do. I think this is common he did tell his Dr this and he seemed to understand and bumped him up to a higher dosage but my fiance was unable to adjust to the higher dose so on the 3rd day he just takes more bt meds. He was wondering if he switched the spot of where he puts them is this would help. I dont know though. Hope you get the help you need as I know how hard it is to be in constant pain. Kim
IZZY'SMOM
01-03-2007, 02:49 PM
Hi,
Im on the 50's and havent ever been able to go three days. I tried the 75's and they were too strong. So now i do as the abouve poster stated. I use my b/t meds hydro.7.5 on the end of the last day or in case of anything else. i did notice that now i am having to use my b/t meds sometimes even on the second day in the morning, so maybe I may have to tell my doc, as it is making me short on those. ugh!~ I hope that your doc will help you out. My doc does write my script for 48-72 hours so my insurance does pay for mine. If not, they cost 160.00 or more. Good luck, let us know what he says~
My doc only has myself and two other patients on the patch, so hes pretty receptive when we have all told him they dont last us 72 hours. He told me that on my last visit. The other patients said the same thing.
xoxoxoxo
IZZY'SMOM:wave:
Im on the 50's and havent ever been able to go three days. I tried the 75's and they were too strong. So now i do as the abouve poster stated. I use my b/t meds hydro.7.5 on the end of the last day or in case of anything else. i did notice that now i am having to use my b/t meds sometimes even on the second day in the morning, so maybe I may have to tell my doc, as it is making me short on those. ugh!~ I hope that your doc will help you out. My doc does write my script for 48-72 hours so my insurance does pay for mine. If not, they cost 160.00 or more. Good luck, let us know what he says~
My doc only has myself and two other patients on the patch, so hes pretty receptive when we have all told him they dont last us 72 hours. He told me that on my last visit. The other patients said the same thing.
xoxoxoxo
IZZY'SMOM:wave:
Director
01-03-2007, 04:47 PM
Hi Everybody: I was on the patch (Duragesic) about four years ago at 100 mcg/hr and my doctor put me on them with a change at 48 hours from the start. He knew and it seems other doctors are starting to get the message that they just don't last for 72 hours. I was lucky, I never had any problems with my insurance paying for 15 per month.
Onyxgates, I don't have any magic words of wisdom for you, I wish I did. All you can do is talk to the doctor and if he won't up you to 48 hours on your change, see if he will at least write you a script for some additional meds (oral) to take that last day on the patch. Make sure you get something strong enough to do some good, because if you're use to Fentanyl you get from being on the patch, you need some heavy BT meds.
Hopefully, some day the insurance companies will realize that what all the patients are saying is right and the patches just don't last the three days they're suppose to. Let us know how you doctor visit goes and what he has to say.
Onyxgates, I don't have any magic words of wisdom for you, I wish I did. All you can do is talk to the doctor and if he won't up you to 48 hours on your change, see if he will at least write you a script for some additional meds (oral) to take that last day on the patch. Make sure you get something strong enough to do some good, because if you're use to Fentanyl you get from being on the patch, you need some heavy BT meds.
Hopefully, some day the insurance companies will realize that what all the patients are saying is right and the patches just don't last the three days they're suppose to. Let us know how you doctor visit goes and what he has to say.
forginon
01-03-2007, 05:18 PM
...He was wondering if he switched the spot of where he puts them is this would help. I dont know though. Hope you get the help you need as I know how hard it is to be in constant pain. Kim
If memory serves you are supposed to use a new location every time you apply a new patch. I used to rotate sites between my upper arm, my chest and my upper back/shoulder.
I believe they consider the existing site to be somewhat irritated and therefore recommend a new location each time. I learned from experience that irritated sites can be prone to draining patches more quickly than they otherwise would. This could be one reason for the patch lasting only 2 days. But, as others have said, my patches only lasted 48 hours as well.
Best of luck with insurance acknowledging the need for 15/month. I wonder if insurance is balking because of the way the doctor is writing the prescription. My doctor used to write apply a fresh patch every other day, or something close to that. I don't believe she actually wrote the duration in hours.
If memory serves you are supposed to use a new location every time you apply a new patch. I used to rotate sites between my upper arm, my chest and my upper back/shoulder.
I believe they consider the existing site to be somewhat irritated and therefore recommend a new location each time. I learned from experience that irritated sites can be prone to draining patches more quickly than they otherwise would. This could be one reason for the patch lasting only 2 days. But, as others have said, my patches only lasted 48 hours as well.
Best of luck with insurance acknowledging the need for 15/month. I wonder if insurance is balking because of the way the doctor is writing the prescription. My doctor used to write apply a fresh patch every other day, or something close to that. I don't believe she actually wrote the duration in hours.
kim4074
01-03-2007, 05:39 PM
He puts his on his upper back and shoulder area and he does switch the spot with every new patch but it is always on that area of his body he switches sides and such with a new patch. I guess he was wondering since he always uses his upper shoulder area for the last 1.5yrs if he should try another part of his body. Maybe I will tell him to try his upper arm. Does anyone else notice that they also dont stay stuck good for the 3days? He uses tape to keep his on. Wondering if that is an issue too. He is going to discuss this with his Dr. As another poster said when he was bumped up to 75mcg that was just too much for him to handle so he was bumped back down to 50mcg's. I just wish there was something else for him to keep him comfortable. Another ? does anyone else get the RLS towards the 3rd day when it is wearing off. It gets so bad that he cant even sleep and has to get up in the middle of the night to take bt meds. Just wondering. Thanks for any response. Kim
whitfield
01-03-2007, 07:08 PM
I find that I alternate between upper arms--only place I don't seem to need extra tape--as you know the larger the patch, the higher the Mcg--with 100--the largest and therefore more prone to coming off.--Have tried thighs and chest--never seem to stay for me.
Roger
Roger
IZZY'SMOM
01-03-2007, 07:26 PM
I used to put them on my upper arms, and I use the Mylan brand, they are cheaper and smaller. Also they dont have all of the gel right there that could leak or puncture when i have small children, dogs, ect. I have had super luck with those now.
A started trying my upper thighs this last batch of patches, because I like to wear sleeveless tanks and shirts, and I didnt want them on my upper arms. I cant tell any difference. I do know that if I am going to get in the hot tub for a very short time, I do remember to do it on the nite I change my patch. My doc said I could hot tub with the patch, but only for a short time. So i dont want to take a chance on one coming off, or having one deliver too much med. at one time.
Others have suggested the Tegaderm to keep the patches on. I havent needed them but know of others that use them. I know they say not to tape down the WHOLE patch, just the edges.
I hope your docs will try to write the script different for you all, thats a shame that if its not lasting the 3 days, that the insurance wont cover it. Im always so super careful with mine and terrified one will come off or something, because of insurance being so stingy.
I havent had the RLS because I get to change my patch thankfully more often, but I never have had that, ever. I know the 75's when i tried one box of those, I couldnt even drive on them the first day. I was OUT of it. :eek: I hated it. I couldnt function, and feel much better now on the 50's. i dont know if my doc will give me anything stronger for b/t than the hydro. 7.5. i asked once and he didnt want to. So I feel like if I can change every 48, Im pushing it asking for stronger meds. They work if I take 2 tabs 3 or 4 times a day, when I need them, but I run out too soon. Guess thats something Ill have to work out and visit with him about. Good luck to everyone~
xoxoxoxoxo
IZZY'SMOM:wave:
A started trying my upper thighs this last batch of patches, because I like to wear sleeveless tanks and shirts, and I didnt want them on my upper arms. I cant tell any difference. I do know that if I am going to get in the hot tub for a very short time, I do remember to do it on the nite I change my patch. My doc said I could hot tub with the patch, but only for a short time. So i dont want to take a chance on one coming off, or having one deliver too much med. at one time.
Others have suggested the Tegaderm to keep the patches on. I havent needed them but know of others that use them. I know they say not to tape down the WHOLE patch, just the edges.
I hope your docs will try to write the script different for you all, thats a shame that if its not lasting the 3 days, that the insurance wont cover it. Im always so super careful with mine and terrified one will come off or something, because of insurance being so stingy.
I havent had the RLS because I get to change my patch thankfully more often, but I never have had that, ever. I know the 75's when i tried one box of those, I couldnt even drive on them the first day. I was OUT of it. :eek: I hated it. I couldnt function, and feel much better now on the 50's. i dont know if my doc will give me anything stronger for b/t than the hydro. 7.5. i asked once and he didnt want to. So I feel like if I can change every 48, Im pushing it asking for stronger meds. They work if I take 2 tabs 3 or 4 times a day, when I need them, but I run out too soon. Guess thats something Ill have to work out and visit with him about. Good luck to everyone~
xoxoxoxoxo
IZZY'SMOM:wave:
Director
01-03-2007, 07:31 PM
I never had any problems getting the Duragesic patches staying on and I didn't use any tape. One thing everyone has to remember, is that the patch has to be put in an area where there is no hair. It must be clean and free of any residue adhesive from previous patches. I always used my upper arm and would just alternate them and it worked just fine.
djemcee
01-03-2007, 08:27 PM
I change them every 48 as 72 was not cutting it. Insurance payes for 15 a month for me. I change locations between upper arms to side rib cage area.
Always a different spot from the last patch. basically I go in a circle around my body :)
California Chris
Always a different spot from the last patch. basically I go in a circle around my body :)
California Chris
onyxgates
01-04-2007, 03:54 PM
No dice every 72 hours and no breakthrough meds. He is really pushing me towards having the surgery (fusion). In fact he says he would like to try and take me down on the patch (not right now but later). Geez...talk about pressure...looks like I have no choice but to get the surgery!!
kim4074
01-04-2007, 03:59 PM
Can you get a second opinion. I have known people who have that done and it doesnt work. Ask your doctor how many successes he has had? They also get kick backs from the companys so they make even more money for doing the surgery. None of my fiances Dr's will do the surgery cause of the success rate. I dont know it just sound fishy that he is only pushing surgery that doesnt have a good recovery rate. A friend of mine just had that and is now worse off than b4 it. So do your research. Dont be bullied into an operation that your not 100% comfortable with. Kim
Director
01-04-2007, 04:16 PM
I'm with Kim on this one. I agree that there are too many failures to just jump in and say ok, if you think it's best. He's using the drug thing to push you into doing something you're not comfortable with. At the very least, get a second opinion. Make sure you don't get the other opinion from a surgeon.
onyxgates
01-04-2007, 05:24 PM
Okay, I am confused...If not a nuero than who should provide me with a second opinion? I am planning on going to see a neuro after my appointment next week with the ortho spine surgeon. I was told to NOT let an ortho do my surgery. Still not sure why but okay...I'll go with it. Do any of you know why?
Director: Should I go to a different Pain Mgmt doctor??? I am feeling in my gut that it might make sense.
Director: Should I go to a different Pain Mgmt doctor??? I am feeling in my gut that it might make sense.
zach016
01-04-2007, 05:36 PM
Hi all,
I was on the patch for a few months a couple of years ago (they worked better than anything I'd tried, but even after trying about 4 different creams they ended up irritating my skin so much it bled).
In the prescribing directions in the Physicians "official" directions AND on the directions in with my patches it clearly said that some people DO need to change the patch every 48 hours and if 72 hours isn't working to Rx them every 48 hours. Do your instructions say that??
Zach
I was on the patch for a few months a couple of years ago (they worked better than anything I'd tried, but even after trying about 4 different creams they ended up irritating my skin so much it bled).
In the prescribing directions in the Physicians "official" directions AND on the directions in with my patches it clearly said that some people DO need to change the patch every 48 hours and if 72 hours isn't working to Rx them every 48 hours. Do your instructions say that??
Zach
IZZY'SMOM
01-04-2007, 05:45 PM
Thats a load of crap...IMO. I think that Director is exactly right on this one, and you have a right to do what YOU want. Thats just inhumane to make you go 72 and no b/t meds at all. :rolleyes:
I had a gal last summer that I golfed with, and she walked 18 holes every day. She had a surg. talk her into the surg. [fusion] and she is in an impatient rehab, has been for almost a year, due to paralysis from the surgery, learning how to live her life all over again.
Not trying to scare you at all, but she didnt feel good doing into it, and wishes so much she would have gotten more opinions.
Dont be bullied, and keep us posted. Im sure there is someone out there that will be good to you and help you out until you feel that you are ready for something. Take care,
oxoxoxox
IZZY'SMOM
I had a gal last summer that I golfed with, and she walked 18 holes every day. She had a surg. talk her into the surg. [fusion] and she is in an impatient rehab, has been for almost a year, due to paralysis from the surgery, learning how to live her life all over again.
Not trying to scare you at all, but she didnt feel good doing into it, and wishes so much she would have gotten more opinions.
Dont be bullied, and keep us posted. Im sure there is someone out there that will be good to you and help you out until you feel that you are ready for something. Take care,
oxoxoxox
IZZY'SMOM
Director
01-04-2007, 07:22 PM
Hey Onyxgates: Sorry for the confusion, mostly on my part. I thought you were seeing a Nuerosurgeon now. Are you or is he just in PM? The reason for asking is, surgeons are notorious for not wanting to prescribe, but pushing surgery. That's what I thought you had going.
A second opinion from a PM wouldn't hurt, but I was thinking more in the lines of a Nuerologist who doesn't do surgery. You're talking about having an Ortho doc do your surgery. I'm not too sure about this either. Any one else feel like it's more in the line of having a Nuerosurgeon do the procedure rather than an Orthopedic surgeon do it? I may be wrong but I thought most fusions, and other spinal surgeries were done by the Nuerosurgeons.
What ever you decide, just don't let them push you into a surgery that doesn't have the greatest success rate without at least getting a good second opinion.
A second opinion from a PM wouldn't hurt, but I was thinking more in the lines of a Nuerologist who doesn't do surgery. You're talking about having an Ortho doc do your surgery. I'm not too sure about this either. Any one else feel like it's more in the line of having a Nuerosurgeon do the procedure rather than an Orthopedic surgeon do it? I may be wrong but I thought most fusions, and other spinal surgeries were done by the Nuerosurgeons.
What ever you decide, just don't let them push you into a surgery that doesn't have the greatest success rate without at least getting a good second opinion.
whitfield
01-05-2007, 11:09 AM
Hi all,
I was on the patch for a few months a couple of years ago (they worked better than anything I'd tried, but even after trying about 4 different creams they ended up irritating my skin so much it bled).
In the prescribing directions in the Physicians "official" directions AND on the directions in with my patches it clearly said that some people DO need to change the patch every 48 hours and if 72 hours isn't working to Rx them every 48 hours. Do your instructions say that??
Zach
I have looked through BOTH the Full Precribing Information and the Patient Information that comes in my box of 100Mcg Patches--the ones I get are made by Sandoz and look and feel exactly like the name brand Duragesic--even made in the same facility--But I cannot find where it says may only last 48 hours on some patients--Has all kinds of charts etc for doctor--It does say to put on every 72 hours OR as prescribed by your physician--Just wanted to show my doctor because as I said they really do only last 2 days for me--Was wondering where I can find that "official" manufacturer statement so I could show my doc. Thanks
Roger
I was on the patch for a few months a couple of years ago (they worked better than anything I'd tried, but even after trying about 4 different creams they ended up irritating my skin so much it bled).
In the prescribing directions in the Physicians "official" directions AND on the directions in with my patches it clearly said that some people DO need to change the patch every 48 hours and if 72 hours isn't working to Rx them every 48 hours. Do your instructions say that??
Zach
I have looked through BOTH the Full Precribing Information and the Patient Information that comes in my box of 100Mcg Patches--the ones I get are made by Sandoz and look and feel exactly like the name brand Duragesic--even made in the same facility--But I cannot find where it says may only last 48 hours on some patients--Has all kinds of charts etc for doctor--It does say to put on every 72 hours OR as prescribed by your physician--Just wanted to show my doctor because as I said they really do only last 2 days for me--Was wondering where I can find that "official" manufacturer statement so I could show my doc. Thanks
Roger
IZZY'SMOM
01-05-2007, 03:23 PM
Hi all~
I just looked on my Mylan insert and it says to change it every 3 days OR as directed by your physician.
xoxoxox
IZZY'SMOM
I just looked on my Mylan insert and it says to change it every 3 days OR as directed by your physician.
xoxoxox
IZZY'SMOM
onyxgates
01-05-2007, 04:24 PM
Director and Others:
Sorry for my vagueness...
I am currently seeing a pain mgmt doctor and an orthepedic spine surgeon. I am planning on getting a second opinion from an actual nuerosurgeon and if he agrees with my ortho...will most likely go to him for the actual surgery. I have heard the same...you don't go to an ortho for a fusion. My PM doc referred me to the Ortho so that is why I decided to see him first. He is a very nice doctor and seems to know his stuff and I do trust him which is why if the nuero doesn't think surgery is correct, I will get a third opinion and go with the majority.
Now my PM doc doesn't want to go any higher on pain meds and doesn't want to keep prescribing them to me...I really don't think they are pain mgmt as much as they are those needle pushers that everyone talks about. They were fine with me when I was going through all of their procedures but now that I am not getting any expensive procedures...their tunes have changed. Can you go to another PM doc? I don't want to doctor shop but I also want to get a fair shake and treated correctly.
Sorry for my vagueness...
I am currently seeing a pain mgmt doctor and an orthepedic spine surgeon. I am planning on getting a second opinion from an actual nuerosurgeon and if he agrees with my ortho...will most likely go to him for the actual surgery. I have heard the same...you don't go to an ortho for a fusion. My PM doc referred me to the Ortho so that is why I decided to see him first. He is a very nice doctor and seems to know his stuff and I do trust him which is why if the nuero doesn't think surgery is correct, I will get a third opinion and go with the majority.
Now my PM doc doesn't want to go any higher on pain meds and doesn't want to keep prescribing them to me...I really don't think they are pain mgmt as much as they are those needle pushers that everyone talks about. They were fine with me when I was going through all of their procedures but now that I am not getting any expensive procedures...their tunes have changed. Can you go to another PM doc? I don't want to doctor shop but I also want to get a fair shake and treated correctly.
Director
01-05-2007, 05:12 PM
Hey Onyxgates: You can go to any doctor you want to go to, whenever you want. Remember, the doctor "works" for you. If it were me, I would line up another PM doc before I say anything to the current PM doctor, but when you have everything all set, fire the current PM doc. Make sure of the time frame, so you don't leave yourself without meds and go into withdrawal.
I still really think it's unfair that the current PM doctor won't go to 48 hours in changing your patch, or at the very least give you something for BT pain. I have been on Duragesic (Fentanyl) Patches before, both with 48 and 72 hour changes. It's a world of difference. That third day, seems like you don't have a patch on at all.
I like your idea of getting another opinion and maybe even a third, if necessary. I think you've got things figured out and I'm glad you're going to be careful and not jump into this without all the facts and opinions.
I still really think it's unfair that the current PM doctor won't go to 48 hours in changing your patch, or at the very least give you something for BT pain. I have been on Duragesic (Fentanyl) Patches before, both with 48 and 72 hour changes. It's a world of difference. That third day, seems like you don't have a patch on at all.
I like your idea of getting another opinion and maybe even a third, if necessary. I think you've got things figured out and I'm glad you're going to be careful and not jump into this without all the facts and opinions.
onyxgates
01-05-2007, 05:50 PM
Thank you for the assurance as right now I don't feel like I am in control or making any good choices. It is amazing the difference between the patch...Last night I went to bed at 8:00 because I couldn't take it anymore the pain was probably at an eight or nine. After tossing and turning, I finally fell asleep at 11 or 12 but it was a very fitful rest. I was waking up every couple of hours in pain. When I woke up this morning and changed the patch, I was still in a lot of pain. It took about two and a half hours before I felt like I could move without large bouts of pain. I am sitting here at work and am great. Yes it hurts when I move or if I think about it but it is closer to a five. I feel like I can tolerate this. I am meeting with my GP next Thursday and I am going to ask him if he can recommend a new Pain Mgmt doctor for me.
Thanks again for all of your help.
Thanks again for all of your help.
IZZY'SMOM
01-05-2007, 07:31 PM
Thats great! I hope that you can find someone fast and fire the current moron you have now. Sorry and not trying to be rude, but you deserve so much better. Make sure as Director said to have enough meds, that would be really rough. Good luck, let us know what happens. Theres no way I could go 3 days on the patch, Id be in misery, and yet not to have andy b/t would be totally cruel. :eek:
xoxoxoxo
IZZY'SMOM
xoxoxoxo
IZZY'SMOM
onyxgates
01-05-2007, 07:39 PM
Right now would be an ideal time as I have a 30 day supply. Just got my refill. I am meeting with my GP next Thursday. We will see. Thanks to you all for all of your advice and input. You are all gems:) Have a great evening and hopefully a painfree one as well!!!
ozzybug
01-06-2007, 07:17 PM
Hey Onyx-
I'd think twice about seeking another PM doctor with the situation being what it is with your current one sweetie. If you go see another PM doctor, your records from the one you are currently seeing will have to be forwarded to the new one, and he will see why your current PM won't prescribe opiates and is cutting your dose down on the patches you are using. You did the right thing in coming clean with your current PM doctor about your situation, and he chose to keep you in his practice when he could have dismissed you. My PM would have dismissed me in a heart beat. He is very clear about the rules his patients must follow. No room for errors of any kind.
Unfortunately, you are in true chronic pain that needs to be managed in some way, and I do wish you the very best in being able to work with your current PM doctor in finding some way to get this pain under control. All of us here know what it's like to live in chronic pain and are all well aware of how it affects our day to day activities. We also know how much the quality of life can improve when our pain is managed properly.
I will keep my fingers crossed that you and your PM can come to some type of agreement on managing your pain. Good Luck Onyx!
I'd think twice about seeking another PM doctor with the situation being what it is with your current one sweetie. If you go see another PM doctor, your records from the one you are currently seeing will have to be forwarded to the new one, and he will see why your current PM won't prescribe opiates and is cutting your dose down on the patches you are using. You did the right thing in coming clean with your current PM doctor about your situation, and he chose to keep you in his practice when he could have dismissed you. My PM would have dismissed me in a heart beat. He is very clear about the rules his patients must follow. No room for errors of any kind.
Unfortunately, you are in true chronic pain that needs to be managed in some way, and I do wish you the very best in being able to work with your current PM doctor in finding some way to get this pain under control. All of us here know what it's like to live in chronic pain and are all well aware of how it affects our day to day activities. We also know how much the quality of life can improve when our pain is managed properly.
I will keep my fingers crossed that you and your PM can come to some type of agreement on managing your pain. Good Luck Onyx!
irvman1021
01-14-2007, 10:05 PM
I just wanted to let everyone know that I use the Sandoz brand patch and my doc said to put in on my abdominal area. Just not to put in the same spot everytime. It works great. Then nobody has to see if but your spouse or whatever. Also I have one problem with it and 18 hours after I put it on then I start to get really sick to my stomach. And that last about 20 hours and then I am fine. Does this happen to anyone else?
IZZY'SMOM
01-14-2007, 10:15 PM
Hi Irv...
I have found that when I was on the 75's I had the WORST first day... and now since i went to to the 50's Im much better.
I was so spacey I couldnt drive, and irritable, and couldnt eat, until the second day.
I dont know if oyu can step down a notch, and maybe get mor b/t relief, but I know if happened to me. I use the Mylan patches, because they're cheaper, and smaller. I usually wear a tiny teeny tank, ect shirt every day, or something to where I cant wear the patch on my arm, and i wear it on my upper thigh. It works fine there.
Hope this helped!
xoxoxoxox,
IZZYSMOM
:wave:
I have found that when I was on the 75's I had the WORST first day... and now since i went to to the 50's Im much better.
I was so spacey I couldnt drive, and irritable, and couldnt eat, until the second day.
I dont know if oyu can step down a notch, and maybe get mor b/t relief, but I know if happened to me. I use the Mylan patches, because they're cheaper, and smaller. I usually wear a tiny teeny tank, ect shirt every day, or something to where I cant wear the patch on my arm, and i wear it on my upper thigh. It works fine there.
Hope this helped!
xoxoxoxox,
IZZYSMOM
:wave:
whitfield
01-14-2007, 10:45 PM
I just wanted to let everyone know that I use the Sandoz brand patch and my doc said to put in on my abdominal area. Just not to put in the same spot everytime. It works great. Then nobody has to see if but your spouse or whatever. Also I have one problem with it and 18 hours after I put it on then I start to get really sick to my stomach. And that last about 20 hours and then I am fine. Does this happen to anyone else?
Hi Irvman1021--
Seems weird to me that doc would say to put it on your stomach--I use the same brand 100Mcg and can only get them to stay on upper arm unless I use extra tape--I think your reactions may just be your bodys adjusting to the constant med--mine were similiar in the beginning--Now I just have to make sure I am sitting down when I first put the patch on--gives an initial "rush"--or used to anyway. All the best to you--good luck--
Roger
Hi Irvman1021--
Seems weird to me that doc would say to put it on your stomach--I use the same brand 100Mcg and can only get them to stay on upper arm unless I use extra tape--I think your reactions may just be your bodys adjusting to the constant med--mine were similiar in the beginning--Now I just have to make sure I am sitting down when I first put the patch on--gives an initial "rush"--or used to anyway. All the best to you--good luck--
Roger
irvman1021
01-14-2007, 11:00 PM
Thanks for the reply. I have just started this patch like a two months. So my body may still be getting used to them. I just don't know if I should ask to take something else for the pain or what. I can't take throwing up for 20 hours straight. Plus I am like only 5'2 and 98-100 pounds. I take a few other meds aswell, that might be making me sick I will just have to talk to the doc when I go in. May I ask what you use this patch for? ( what kind of pain) I have ESRD which is kidney failure and am hoping to get a kidney soon. Hope to hear back from you and have a wonderful night and lets hope it's pain free. :wave:
IZZY'SMOM
01-15-2007, 02:29 AM
Hi Irvman1021--
Seems weird to me that doc would say to put it on your stomach--I use the same brand 100Mcg and can only get them to stay on upper arm unless I use extra tape--I think your reactions may just be your bodys adjusting to the constant med--mine were similiar in the beginning--Now I just have to make sure I am sitting down when I first put the patch on--gives an initial "rush"--or used to anyway. All the best to you--good luck--
Roger
Hey Roger!~
Isnt it amazing the diffrerent responses? i dont feel a thing for at least 8 hours..at least. I have had to re-apply a patch that has fallen off, and have to wait for at LEAST 8 hours, and a few times with no b/t meds, and I wanted to die...
Wow, I wish they affected me that soon. Great advice, and post...everyone is sure different. Hoping you have a painfree or close to it day!~
Hugs~
xoxoxoxox
IZZYSMOM:angel: :angel:
Seems weird to me that doc would say to put it on your stomach--I use the same brand 100Mcg and can only get them to stay on upper arm unless I use extra tape--I think your reactions may just be your bodys adjusting to the constant med--mine were similiar in the beginning--Now I just have to make sure I am sitting down when I first put the patch on--gives an initial "rush"--or used to anyway. All the best to you--good luck--
Roger
Hey Roger!~
Isnt it amazing the diffrerent responses? i dont feel a thing for at least 8 hours..at least. I have had to re-apply a patch that has fallen off, and have to wait for at LEAST 8 hours, and a few times with no b/t meds, and I wanted to die...
Wow, I wish they affected me that soon. Great advice, and post...everyone is sure different. Hoping you have a painfree or close to it day!~
Hugs~
xoxoxoxox
IZZYSMOM:angel: :angel:
whitfield
01-15-2007, 09:00 AM
Thanks for the reply. I have just started this patch like a two months. So my body may still be getting used to them. I just don't know if I should ask to take something else for the pain or what. I can't take throwing up for 20 hours straight. Plus I am like only 5'2 and 98-100 pounds. I take a few other meds aswell, that might be making me sick I will just have to talk to the doc when I go in. May I ask what you use this patch for? ( what kind of pain) I have ESRD which is kidney failure and am hoping to get a kidney soon. Hope to hear back from you and have a wonderful night and lets hope it's pain free. :wave:
Good Morning Irvman1021--I use the patch for chronic pancreatitus, which like yours is pain in the guts--was hospitalized after developing a psuedo-cyst from infected pancreas--had a drain tube put in which I had to wear for 8 weeks--twice over 2 years--I only have 1 kidney (born that way)--now, I use the oxycontin 40mg tab for "breakthrough" pain on day 3--just had my right hip replaced and now need the left--always seems to be something--after seeing 2 "Pain Specialists" (both declined to treat organ pain) I just went to my Primary and he prescribes most of my meds--I also have a Gastroenterologist(sp?) who prescribes enzymes and omizaprole for digestion.
I never threw up but as IZZYSMOM says--"everybody is different"--what size patch do you use?
Roger
Good Morning Irvman1021--I use the patch for chronic pancreatitus, which like yours is pain in the guts--was hospitalized after developing a psuedo-cyst from infected pancreas--had a drain tube put in which I had to wear for 8 weeks--twice over 2 years--I only have 1 kidney (born that way)--now, I use the oxycontin 40mg tab for "breakthrough" pain on day 3--just had my right hip replaced and now need the left--always seems to be something--after seeing 2 "Pain Specialists" (both declined to treat organ pain) I just went to my Primary and he prescribes most of my meds--I also have a Gastroenterologist(sp?) who prescribes enzymes and omizaprole for digestion.
I never threw up but as IZZYSMOM says--"everybody is different"--what size patch do you use?
Roger
forginon
01-15-2007, 03:55 PM
Good Morning Irvman1021--I use the patch for chronic pancreatitus, which like yours is pain in the guts--was hospitalized after developing a psuedo-cyst from infected pancreas--had a drain tube put in which I had to wear for 8 weeks--twice over 2 years--I only have 1 kidney (born that way)--now, I use the oxycontin 40mg tab for "breakthrough" pain on day 3--just had my right hip replaced and now need the left--always seems to be something--after seeing 2 "Pain Specialists" (both declined to treat organ pain) I just went to my Primary and he prescribes most of my meds--I also have a Gastroenterologist(sp?) who prescribes enzymes and omizaprole for digestion.
I never threw up but as IZZYSMOM says--"everybody is different"--what size patch do you use?
Roger
Are you sure that you're taking oxycontin for breakthrough pain? Could it be oxycodone? Xycontin is an extended release formula and would normally be a very poor breakthrough medicine. The narcotic in oxycontin is oxycodone, which when used w/o the extended release formula is a great med for breakthrough pain.
I ask because if you are using oxycontin, then along with the patch you are using two long-acting narcotic meds. Most docs will not prescribe this way and it may be that you are getting really poor support for your breakthrough pain. Is the same dr prescribing the patch and the oxycontin?
It's best to have one dr writing scripts for all of your pain meds. That gives you the best shot at the relief you are seeking.
I never threw up but as IZZYSMOM says--"everybody is different"--what size patch do you use?
Roger
Are you sure that you're taking oxycontin for breakthrough pain? Could it be oxycodone? Xycontin is an extended release formula and would normally be a very poor breakthrough medicine. The narcotic in oxycontin is oxycodone, which when used w/o the extended release formula is a great med for breakthrough pain.
I ask because if you are using oxycontin, then along with the patch you are using two long-acting narcotic meds. Most docs will not prescribe this way and it may be that you are getting really poor support for your breakthrough pain. Is the same dr prescribing the patch and the oxycontin?
It's best to have one dr writing scripts for all of your pain meds. That gives you the best shot at the relief you are seeking.
conductor
01-15-2007, 10:35 PM
OK...In the Physician's Desk Reference (the infamous PDR), there are at least 2 PERTINENT statements located in the Duragesic Full Prescribing Information
[removed]
Since I feel like a doctor's office due to the amount of meds I take, I purchase a PDR every other year or so--for my own personal reference.
Certainly, I hope this helps those of you who are looking for written documentation of 48-hour dosing of the fentanyl patch and documentation of 'breakthrough' medication suggestions.
Sincerely,
Jon (Conductor)
[removed]
Since I feel like a doctor's office due to the amount of meds I take, I purchase a PDR every other year or so--for my own personal reference.
Certainly, I hope this helps those of you who are looking for written documentation of 48-hour dosing of the fentanyl patch and documentation of 'breakthrough' medication suggestions.
Sincerely,
Jon (Conductor)
whitfield
01-16-2007, 10:48 AM
Thank you Jon! I found it--then went to pick up my new supply yesterday and pharmacy gave me the Mylan brand--first time I have seen them--put on my first one this morning and started looking for the same statement regarding 48 hours vs 72 hours and I found it--If anyone is interested in the full prescribing information for the Mylan brand patch I found the same statement--It is the 3rd paragraph under Notes After Table D1--(hope this brand is as good as the Sandoz--will know soon enough!)--Thanks again Jon.
Roger
Roger