Janssen Vs Mylan Patches - Pain Management Message Board

MLACHAKE · 03-14-2005, 03:00 PM

Hi Everyone,
I went to pick up my Rx last Wednesday and my Pharmacist stated that he only had the Generic Patches(Mylan). Figuring that they were the same as the Janssen Patches I told him to go ahead and fill my Rx. However, I have noticed that I am having withdrawal Symptoms: some fever, headache, nausea etc... and when I did some research found that Generics are allowed to have 20% less or more medication than the Brand Name.
Is there anyone else who has experinced withdrawal symptoms while taking the Generic Duragesic Patch? I am starting to feel really sick and have been thinking about calling my PM Doc but do not know what to tell them as it was my decision to get the Generic and not the brand name.
Anyone have any suggestions? I would really appreciate it. I have been on the Patch since October 2004, I started on the 50MCG which was not working so they moved me to the 75MCG. I was taking the Oxycontin 10 mg x 3 a day for a year previous to the patch

SheSparkles · 03-14-2005, 03:39 PM

[QUOTE=MLACHAKE]but do not know what to tell them as it was my decision to get the Generic and not the brand name.

Hi there,
If you are insured, it was not your decision to get the generic patches in all probability...it was the insurance company's. There is, however, another generic patch that is made by the same folks that make the Duragesic patch and distributed by Sandoz. That is the generic to ask for and use, in my opinion. I use the patch and switched from the brand to the Sandoz and have had no problem and have heard of no problems. Folks on the Mylan patch seem to have similar problems to you. Next month, know where you are going to be able to buy the Sandoz patch and for now, ask yr Dr. if you can use a higher amount of rescue meds for this month. The pharmacies are getting in the Mylan patch but all you need to do is gently insist on preferring the Sandoz version and most smaller pharmacies will be happy to oblige.
Sparkles/ShineOn

Kaylbe · 03-15-2005, 10:02 PM

I've just finished my first box (#5) of the 100mcg Mylan generic patches. I haven't had any problem with them. In fact, I'd say they may be working a bit better than the Duragesic brand patches. The Mylan brand are made differently than the brand and Sandoz versions. They have no "resevoir". The entire patch consists of a thin plastic backing with the fentanyl in the adhesive next to the skin. I don't know about the other strengths, but the Mylan 100mcg's are about 1.5 x 2.5 inches. I think any increase in it's effectiveness might be due to the fact that these Mylan patches really do stick to the skin and stay stuck (without the use of the Bioclusive.) My upper arms are already thanking me! I haven't tried the Sandoz generics. But right now, if I had to choose between the brand Duragesic and the Mylan generics, I'd go with the Mylan. They also save me $20 a month on my co-pay.

Just my opinion.. YMMV!

--Kaylbe

SheSparkles · 03-16-2005, 08:27 AM

[QUOTE=Kaylbe]But right now, if I had to choose between the brand Duragesic and the Mylan generics, I'd go with the Mylan. They also save me $20 a month on my co-pay.

This good to hear...I was hoping the Mylan patch wasn't a total flop since many people have to go on them if the others are not ordered. I'm glad for you and happy you can report good things for others here.
SS

tbmbjm · 03-28-2005, 05:38 AM

Hi,I'm a newbie here! I am almost finished with my second prescription of the Duragesic made by Mylan and will have to call my doctor today as I am running out early again! I am having to apply them every 2 days or the severe pain returns,uncontrolled by my breakthrough medicine of Vicodin. The 1st time I ran out early he increased my dosage from 50 to 75,to allow me to get them before scheduled time. Now,I am in the same predicament! With the name brand Duragesic at 50,I was able at times to go 4 days before replacing. I have insurance,and the generic costs me $5,versus $75 for the name brand. Since I am tight on money being on disability, I was trying to go with the generic. When I call today, I am going to see if he can prescribe the generic in 50,every 2 days,instead of 3. Does anyone know if they are allowed to do that,since they are supposed to last 3 days? Thanks for any input!