Fentanyl is an opioid. It is related to opium, morphine, codeine and heroin. It was first developed in the 1950s in Belgium at a potency far greater than that of morphine. In the 1960s it was used under the name of SublimazeÒ as an intravenous anesthetic.

Opioids are the most effective drugs known for pain relief. Fentanyl is classified as a narcotic and has several forms. Its effect is like that of heroin, with less of a "high" and more pain relief. Duragesic is a Fentanyl patch used in the management of chronic pain.

Duragesic patches

A patch is a way of administering medication gradually through the skin. The drug moves through the skin and into the bloodstream slowly, providing extended pain relief.

But in 2005, after several reports of serious side effects and even some deaths, the FDA issued a warning about defective Duragesic patches. Some had been withdrawn in 2004 because of a leaking seal, which caused fatal overdoses.

The FDA Advisory

Included in this were warnings that:

• Doctors should be conservative in prescribing Fentanyl skin patches due to their strength
• Fentanyl should not be used to treat short term or intermittent pain
• Doctors and caregivers should be aware of signs of Fentanyl overdose
• Consumers should be especially cautious to not mix Fentanyl with alcohol
• Consumers should be instructed on safe methods of storage and disposal of Fentanyl

Other forms of Fentanyl are used too, such as Actiq, a solid form of Fentanyl that is taken orally for cancer pain that "breaks through" the pain reliever already being taken. It is also used for severe back pain, bone injuries and arthritis.

Symptoms of Fentanyl overdose

• Slow breathing
• Slow heartbeat
• Clammy, cold skin
• Seizures
• Pinpoint pupils

You can read more by using these links:

• Misfilled Prescriptions
• Product Liability FAQ
• Defective Medications

If you've been injured, or have lost a loved one because of an accidental Fentanyl overdose, you may be able to file for compensation. An experienced medical malpractice lawyer such as Barry Doyle can assess your circumstances, gather more information, and determine whether you might have a valid claim. Contact Illinois medical malpractice Barry Doyle for your free legal consultation. No recovery, no fee.

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