-December 27, 2007
The Duragesic pain patch and other patches similar to Duragesic recently received a second safety warning from U.S. regulators.
According to reports, improper use of the patch could lead to life-threatening breathing difficulty and death.
FDA Issues Warning
The FDA issued the warning, which urges doctors to be cautious in prescribing the skin patch.
FDA officials are also asking doctors to better educate patients on how to use the patch.
Problems with Duragesic Patch
The patch reportedly contains fentanyl, which is a narcotic, and is typically used to treat patients suffering from terminal forms of cancer.
The patch was put on high alert in July when 120 patients who took the drug died.
The FDA says it still gets reports of deaths side effects associated with the drug when it is prescribed incorrectly.
“There are really just a small number of cases that are very concerning because they are preventable,” says Bob Rappaport, the director of the FDA’s division of Anesthesia.
(Source: Bloomberg)
Have you or someone you know been harmed by the Duragesic Patch? If so, please contact us to speak with an experienced attorney who will enable you and your loved ones to receive the legal guidance and support that you need.
