Fentanyl Patch ? - Pain Management Message Board

10sox · 02-27-2009, 06:45 PM

Has anyone lived in a hot/humid climate and worn this patch? I live in FL and am outdoors quite a bit with my small children. Needless to say, I get pretty hot just keeping up with them. Just getting them in/out of their carseats is enough to make me sweat.

I live in chronic pain every day from very bad nerve damange from a very bad back. I was told by my Pain Doctor that I can not try any more LA medication because my GI doctor confirmed that was what was causing all my tummy issues. (I was on Opana ER)

SO, for now I am on Neurontin and Hydrocodone. I have been in so much pain, that he told me to double up on my hydrocodone and take them on a schedule. I am doing this, but still in lots of pain.

I have heard good things about the patch from a friend of mine (who does not live in a hot climate). Do you think I should ask my doctor about this? I know it's bad to ask for a drug by name, but not sure how else to ask him. Also, since the patch is on the skin, does that mean it bypasses the stomach??

Oh yeah...do you think my kids could peel off my patch? They are constantly pulling at me and I would be afraid they would grab it and it would get on their hands. Is this something to be concerned about?

Thanks!!!!!
10sox

ck07073 · 02-27-2009, 08:57 PM

Hi,
I've been on Fentanyl patchs for many years because of my back issues. I have mixed feelings on this.... they are highly addictive. I tried to get myself off of them but it was impossible. At the same time they work the best and I don't feel them like I do when I take percocet or vicodin.
I live in NJ but have been to Aruba, Mexico and Florida many times and I did not have a problem with them staying on. If you do start using them you have to be extremely careful around your kids and even pets. IF there is any chance of your children getting their hands on them then do not get them. Fentanyl is a strong narcotic and even a small amount could result in a serious overdose for a young child. What you could do to make sure they won't come off is use first aid tape or other kind of adhesive bandage/tape made to work on the skin.
Stomach issues are listed as a possible side effect. Your doctor could tell you more.
I hope this helps you,
CK

Executor · 02-27-2009, 08:58 PM

10 Sox-

What LA meds have you tried? What stomach issues was the Opana causing? Once you reply, I will offer my advice / suggestions.

Regards,

Ex

Boxerluver · 02-28-2009, 05:31 PM

I am in Florida and I have worn the patch for years. I used to use the tegraderm cover but now just use the patch and it stays on jsut fine.

Melissa

brianpain33 · 03-01-2009, 01:38 AM

If you have problems with the patch staying on then you can use several different things to get the patch to stay on: see the tips on the main board under fentanyl patch sticking tips.

I use the Optisite Flexifix which is an adhesive that comes on a roll and you just cut off what you need and apply over the fentanyl patch. It would protect your little ones from pulling off the fentanyl patch and also ensure that the patch stays on in the hot, humid weather. If you wear the brand name Duragesic they will send you the adhesive overlays for free if you request them.

good luck and I am sure there are plenty of parents that wear them with little ones.

brian