Duragesic & liver + GI system damage - Liver & Pancreas Disorders Message Board

SFangel · 08-30-2003, 12:40 PM

Hi,

I have been using Duragesic since September 14, 2002, for severe chronic pain caused by Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy in the left knee/leg.

The fentanyl contained in Duragesic patches goes directly into the bloodstream from the skin where the patch is applied. Fentanyl bypasses the liver and GI system.

Despite this, can Duragesic damage my liver and other organs in the GI system? What should I do?

Thanks.

projapoti · 08-30-2003, 02:09 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by SFangel:
Hi,

I have been using Duragesic since September 14, 2002, for severe chronic pain caused by Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy in the left knee/leg.

The fentanyl contained in Duragesic patches goes directly into the bloodstream from the skin where the patch is applied. Fentanyl bypasses the liver and GI system.

Despite this, can Duragesic damage my liver and other organs in the GI system? What should I do?

Thanks.

Well yes, over time it can. You're right that it is bypassing your liver and GI tract when it goes in to your blood, but remember, that's only until it's passed through the body once. Then the drug that is not sequestered at the site of pain ends up coming back to your liver. Fentanyl, as you probably know, is a very potent opioid, which is relatively safe, but like any chronic drug use, it can eventually affect your kidneys and liver over the long term.

SFangel · 08-30-2003, 09:57 PM

Hi, projapoti

I wonder how long it takes for fentanyl to affect the liver and other organs from the GI system.

Why does fentanyl pass through the body only once? Do you mean that the fentanyl that is not used up to control my pain will go to my liver? What about the other organs from the GI system?

I do know fentanyl is the strongest narcotic painkiller available on the market. I am glad it is relatively safe because this painkiller is very good at controlling my severe pain. Because of this, I plan to use it for the rest of my life. Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, which has been causing all this pain, cannot be cured, so I have no choice.

The only other painkiller that was effective for me is Oxycontin.

which is relatively safe, but like any chronic drug use, it can eventually affect your kidneys and liver over the long term. I guess the doctor does like to prescribe Oxycontin because it is a "street drug" that is easier to abuse than Duragesic.

Thanks.

P.S. I see that you are from London. Can you tell me if fentanyl patches are available to people who have severe non-cancer pain in London or is it only for cancer pain? Thanks again.