We are investigating the following types of cases:

• Overdose (Fentanyl Poisoning) cases involving serious injury
• Overdose cases where the overdose was fatal
• Cases where the overdose was accidental

Fentanyl Facts

• Up to 100 times more powerful than Morphine
• Exists in many generic forms:  Mylan, Actavis, Sandoz and Watson
• Recalled because of defects in its design in 2008 (fold over defect)

What are the Problems?

•  Fold Over Defect (2004 and 2008 recalls because of this)
• Stringer Leakers
• Cuts and Holes in the Patch

All of these defects can cause an overdose.

 From a Recall Notice Sent out in 2008:

"The 14 lots of Fentanyl transdermal system patches being recalled may have a fold-over defect which may cause the patch to leak and expose patients or caregivers directly to the fentanyl gel. Although unaware of any injuries resulting from this issue Actavis, as a precaution, is recalling these lots. As per the approved product labelling for Fentanyl transdermal system, fentanyl is a potent Schedule II opioid medication. Fentanyl patches that are leaking or damaged in any way should not be used. Exposure to fentanyl gel may lead to serious adverse events, including respiratory depression and possible overdose, which may be fatal. Anyone who comes in contact with fentanyl gel should thoroughly rinse exposed skin with large amounts of water only; do not use soap. Immediately dispose of affected patches that may be damaged or compromised in any way by flushing them down the toilet, using caution not to handle them directly. Damaged and/or compromised patches that have leaked gel will not provide effective pain relief."

FDA is looking into reports of death and other serious side effects from overdoses of the narcotic fentanyl in patients using the fentanyl transdermal skin patches for pain control. Directions for using the fentanyl skin patch must be followed exactly to prevent death or other severe side effects that can happen from using too much (overdosing) fentanyl. Source: FDA

The FDA also warns that you should be aware of the fentanyl overdose signs: "Signs of fentanyl overdose include trouble breathing or shallow breathing; tiredness, extreme sleepiness or sedation; inability to think, talk or walk normally; and feeling faint, dizzy or confused. If these signs occur, patients or their caregivers should get medical attention right away."
 

Contact Us:

Burke & Eisner is a nationwide lawfirm.  We have helped hunderds of people with pharmaceutical drug related claims over the years. Contact us to get your questions answered.

You can reach us by:

• Calling 1-800-838-0800
• Use our Duragesic Instant Answer form at the link or at the top of this page.

If you have used the Fentanyl Pain Patches (Duragesic^®) and suffered an overdose or other side effects, learn more about your options and get an Instant Answer to your questions. Call today and speak with an Attorney: 1.800.838.0800.

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