Fentanyl Patch - Pain Management Message Board

Kfc96 · 11-18-2008, 06:21 PM

Hello, I was just prescribed the Fentanyl patch Transdermal \. How long does it take for the first one to kick in, I have been doing my research and I am a little nervous.

lifeaftr40 · 11-19-2008, 06:33 AM

It can take a couple of days for the level in your blood to be maintained. I was on the Fentanyl patch but hated it. Pharmacies carry only certain generic brands in my area and they are the brand that has the meds mixed with the glue and not the resevoir type. I always had to wait while they order my 15 a month as I changed every 2 days instead of 3. Some people have had sucess with this form of LA med

mikebmus · 11-19-2008, 06:21 PM

It takes up to 72 hours for the Fentanyl to reach maximum levels in your blood - sometimes shorter or longer but not by much. It won't "HIT" you like some meds, it's more gradual onset and very effective. I had to stop because I am Diaphoretic and they were falling off all the time, and even when using tape etc. the patch wasn't contacting the skin, which is the most important aspect of the patch - it always has to be entirely in contact with your skin or the dose will be variable. Also, try to force your doc into changing them every 48 hours....I used to get increased pain on day 3 all the time.

PNo · 11-22-2008, 11:07 PM

By the 2nd day I was better. I use breakthrough meds -more in the beginning, less now (on patch 5 now). I had some very specific directions until we had some experience with how I did on the patch. It is really important to have really solid contact. I cover mine with tegaderm (like a clear band aid) type product and they hold well and started working better. I am changing at 72 hours, I probably will end up at about 60 hours not 48hours. I think you need to really discuss the conversion plan carefully with the doc.