DURAGESIC PATCHES: ARE THEY SAFE?

Frank Bailey

Attorney
(866) 735-1102 Ext 435

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PriCara has recalled all lots of its 25 mcg/hr DURAGESIC patches.  These patches contain the powerful drug fentanyl.  The recalled patches have expiration dates on or before December 2009.

The recalled patches may have a cut along one side of the drug reservoir allowing the fentanyl to escape and enter the patient more rapidly than intended by the company.  An overdose of fentanyl may lead to serious adverse consequences such as respiratory depression which may be fatal.  The company has advised anyone who came into contact with the drug to wash their hands with large amounts of water.  DO NOT USE SOAP.  Soap may increase intake of the drug.  The company has also advised to immediately flush the patches down the toilet using caution not to touch the patches directly.

This is not the first time DURAGESIC patches have been recalled, nor will it be the last, unless the companies manufacturing these dangerous patches improve safety at their plants.  I wonder why the FDA hasn’t shut down these plants earlier…