Durogesic

What is it?

An analgesic, opiate preparation containing fentanyl, available as transdermal patches providing 25, 50, 75 and 100µg per hour.

Medical Uses

Chronic cancer pain that is intractable.

Dosage

Patients new to opioids, 1 x 25µg patch. Patients tolerant to opioids, strength depends upon previous analgesic. Patch is renewed every 72 hours and applied to a different (non- hairy) site on upper arm or chest. Change strength according to response and titrate upwards in 25µg increments until pain control is achieved. If dose rises above 300µg per hour, consider other analgesics.

Special Care

Pregnancy, elderly and debilitated patients, brain tumour, kidney or liver disease, depression of respiration, chronic lung disease, increased pressure within skull, slowed heartbeat. Used patches should be disposed of carefully.

Avoid Use

Children, breastfeeding, acute pain.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Depressants of the central nervous system, CYP3A4 inhibitors.

Known Side Effects

Low blood pressure, low ventilation rate, constipation, nausea, euphoria, sleepiness, sweating, slow heartbeat, confusion, hallucinations, headache, itching, skin reactions, urine retention, tolerance, dependence.

Manufacturer

Janssen-Cilag.