Pain Relief Patches

Hello, I'm new on here. Yesterday I had a session with a doctor from a Pain Management Centre who reviewed my pain medications and he didn't think they were sufficient to deal with pain associated with Fibromyalgia, Osteo, Rheumatoid and Psoriatic arthritis and spinal and neck spondylosis so he has suggested having slow release patches of Fentanyl. Just wondered if anyone uses this and if it helps. Thanks in adavance.

[Hazel_Angelstar Administrator FMA UK Staff]

Hi and a warm welcome to our community. Here you will find information support friendship and laughter too. You can find general information on fibromyalgia at our main website fmauk.org

There is a search at top of page, where you can search for previous posts on fentanyl.

[041051]

Hi there Annie B65. I have used Fentanyl patches for about 10 years. I have been happy with them but I only use a low dose. I was originally told that I could put 2 or 3 patches on if I was really struggling but if I put two on they make me sleepy, Everyone reacts differently but they really help me and it is possible to take other pain relief at the same time because that is what I do. If I have a few weeks of severe pain I ring my G.P. and he prescribes me a short course of something else. I guess you could just try them and see how you get on but be prepared to tell the doctor if you aren't happy with them. Good luck.

[Libbyloo2005]

I was on Fentanyl patches for 3 years. When I changed Gp, they weren't happy at all and moved me onto morphine instead. They explained to me how long term use can damage your liver & kidneys - nobody had ever said this to me before. As with any medication, there are side effects, read up on it so you know what you're getting in to. It is highly addictive and I found I had withdrawal symptoms that started at the end of day 2, even though it was a 3 day patch. The patches are affected by heat so can release too quickly if you get too hot. I find morphine capsules better, but everyone is different. Good luck

[waylay in reply to Libbyloo2005]

Addiction and dependence are not the same thing.

[Hidden in reply to waylay]

Totally agree with you Waylay completely different things.

[Cape_Cod_Sharon]

same answer, be aware of the dosing. start low and slowly increase, fentanyl is powerful stuff