Can fentanyl patches be refrigerated?
The box of fentanyl patches does not need to be refrigerated. However, do not store the box in hot places such as a car in the summer.
What do you do if your fentanyl patch comes off?
If the patch falls off after applying it, throw it away and apply a new patch in a different area. If you need to apply more than 1 patch at a time, place the patches far enough apart so that the edges do not touch or overlap each other. Wash your hands with a lot of clear water after applying the medicine.
Does heat affect fentanyl patch?
Heat can cause the fentanyl in the patch to be absorbed into your body faster. This may increase the chance of serious side effects or an overdose.
How do you store fentanyl patches?
Store the fentanyl patches at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). You must immediately dispose of any used or unused patches that are outdated or no longer needed through a medicine take-back program.
What happens if I accidentally touch a fentanyl patch?
If you accidentally touch the sticky layer to your skin or handle a cut or damaged patch, wash the area well with clear water. If the patch comes off and accidentally sticks to the skin of another person, immediately remove the patch, wash the area with water, and get medical help for them right away.
What is the best location to put a fentanyl patch on?
Select a clean, dry area of skin above your waist on your front or back. The upper back is a good spot to put the patch on children or people who are confused because it will be hard for them to remove the patch. Do not apply the patch to oily, broken, burned, cut, or irritated skin. Use only water to clean the area.
When should you not use fentanyl?
If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using fentanyl and call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment:
- slow, shallow breathing.
- decreased urge to breathe.
- difficulty breathing or swallowing.
- extreme drowsiness.
- dizziness.
- confusion.
- fainting.
Can I take a hot bath with a fentanyl patch on?
Do not take long, hot baths or sunbathe while you are wearing the patch. Your patch may also release too much medication if you have a fever or if you get very hot after physical activity. Avoid physical activity that might cause you to get very hot. Call your doctor right away if you have a fever.
Should you flush fentanyl patches down the toilet?
The fentanyl patch product monograph may recommend flushing used and unused patches down the toilet. However, given concerns about the environmental impact of drugs in the water supply, this is not a safe way to dispose of the drug. It is also not suitable to flush patches in locations with septic fields or tanks.
Can you put a fentanyl patch in the same spot?
Changing the Patch Your child’s doctor may have different directions for when to change the fentanyl patch. The new patch goes on a different area of the body. Do not put it in the same place as the old patch.
Does a fentanyl patch make you sleep?
You’re more likely to get side effects such as feeling sleepy or drowsy. Tell a doctor or nurse about your fentanyl patch if you’re having any treatment or tests. Also, remind your pharmacist about your patch when you collect prescriptions or buy other medicines.