Skip Ribbon Commands
Skip to main content
Menu

Fentanyl Patch

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Opioid Adult

Fentanyl Patch - Dosage and How to Use

How should Fentanyl Patch be used?

Paste the number of patches as prescribed by your doctor. Each patch lasts 72 hours and should be changed accordingly unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

If half a patch is to be used, remove only one plastic backing and leave the other one intact during use. Do not cut the patch. Half the patch will be left dangling and may need to be secured by a waterproof plaster.

Steps for Administration

1) Choose a suitable site e.g. dry, flat surface of non-irradiated and non-irritated skin for patch application. Commonly used sites include the chest and upper arm.

 

Images taken and adapted from Mylan Technologies, Inc.

2) Prepare the application site by:

  • Gently cleansing with clear water. Avoid using any soap or alcohol as these may result in skin irritation.
  • Clipping off any hair if present, with scissors. Avoid using a shaver as this may result in skin irritation.

Images taken and adapted from Mylan Technologies, Inc.

3) Tear along the pre-cut edge to remove the patch. To avoid accidentally cutting the patch, do not use scissors to cut open the packet.


Images taken and adapted from Mylan Technologies, Inc.​

4) Peel off one side of the plastic backing first, taking care not to touch the adhesive. Apply the adhesive to the application site.

  
Images taken and adapted from Mylan Technologies, Inc.​

5) After the first half of the patch has been applied, remove the other plastic backing and smoothen out the patch onto the skin. Ensure that there are no air bubbles present.
6) Press the patch firmly in place with the palm of your hand and hold for about 30 seconds to ensure good adherence to the skin.
If adhesion of patch to skin is a problem, use an adhesive film dressing over the patch e.g. Tegaderm®

7) Remove the patch after 72 hours and apply a new patch to a different area of the skin.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, put on the missed patch as soon as you remember after taking off the old one.

What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on this medication, inform your doctor immediately.

  • Updated on 10/12/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by National Cancer Centre Singapore
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

​​​​​

Find Your Medicines