Duragesic

Duragesic Lawsuit
The Duragesic pain patch is an adhesive patch that is applied directly to the skin. It is also known as a fentanyl pain patch. It is prescribed to people that suffer from chronic pain. The Duragesic patch is supposed to deliver a steady dose of the medication fentanyl.

The duragesic patch is manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceutica Products. The pain patch was developed in the 1990’s as a solution for people living with chronic pain. It provides a dose of the powerful pain narcotic fentanyl over an extended period of time stopping the need for ongoing injections of pain medication.

Fentanyl Pain Patch
The Duragesic pain patch contains fentanyl, a powerful narcotic, as its active ingredient. The fentanyl is contained in a transdermal bag in the form of a gel. The patch releases a certain amount of the drug every hour ranging from 25 micrograms to 100 micrograms. In February 2004, a problem with the seal between the linings in the Duragesic patch was discovered which allowed the drug to leak out. This defect led to a manufacturer recall of one group of the patches.

Duragesic Patch
If the fentanyl from the duragesic pain patch leaks directly onto the skin a dangerous amount of the drug can be absorbed into the body. An overdose of fentanyl from Duragesic patches can create a variety of problems some of which can be fatal. Symptoms of a fentanyl overdose resulting from a leak in the Duragesic pain patch include: drowsiness, slow breathing, low blood pressure, cold and clammy skin, slow heartbeat, and small pupils. An overdose of fentanyl can cause severe breathing problems (hypoventilation) where the patient can fall into a coma and also lead to death.

The Duragesic patch is still available today even though doctors and the FDA have expressed concerns over the dangers associated with a potential overdose of fentanyl. It has been reported that hundreds of people have died after using fentanyl transdermal patches. The FDA has granted approval to Mylan Laboratories, Inc. for a generic fentanyl pain patch. In addition, there are other pending applications for other generic fentanyl pain patches. Similar to the Duragesic pain patch, these generic patches have seen reports of problems.

If you or a loved one has suffered injury or died after using the fentanyl pain patch you may be able to file a Duragesic lawsuit. A Duragesic attorney can help evaluate your claim. Free initial consultation. No fees unless we recover compensation for you.