fentanyl patches?

Question

why are they making me feel drowsy

Answer 1

I'm guessing that you either just started on the patch or went to a higher dose. I'm going up on my methadone dose right now so I am drowsy too. It lasts about 3-7 days to adjust to a new dose and then you'll be fine and you'll have better pain relief. It's always good to have family or a trusted friend around when starting a new dose or a new narcotic because of sleepiness, clumsiness, etc. I'm sure you know the signs because if you are on Fentanyl you had to work you're way up. I was on it and I hated it. It was supposed to last three days but only lasted 2 for me. So I would go through withdrawl symptoms every third day. Supposed to stay in your system but not mine. But mine isn't normal per se. I've been on narcotics of one kind or another for 15 years. I've tried muscle relaxers SSRI's, all kinds of stuff and my pain level can run up to a 10 on a daily basis. I don't qualify for a pump because I'm in too much pain HA can you believe that? Oh well maybe someday they'll come up with something better. If the doc that posted on this question has any ideas for me that would be great. Arthritis since birth,38 now, 46 corrective/major surgeries, over 12 forms of arthritis, muscle, tendon/ ligament, everywhere I connect and don't connect--I hurt- and Im at a loss. Sorry I got off track here. Do not cut the patches in half whatever you do. Call your doc asap to adjust the dose if need be or wait it out a few days unless its just too much- then don't wear the patch until you can call your doc or pharmacist. Good luck I know its no fun sorry for what you are going thru.

Answer 2

ask your GP for a reduced dose if you cannot put up with the drowsiness. Maybe they are interacting with other meds you are on, try and relax and in a few days your body will get used to them and you will probably feel less tired. Fentanyl is an effective analgesia for all sorts of pain whatever the cause so bear with them if you can, however the advice given in the answer above is good, you need to be aware of side effects and report them to your GP.

Answer 3

Drowsiness is a normal side effect of fentanyl, a potent pain killer. When you use them make sure you don't have to anything that could be dangerous--don't drive, have food already prepared, don't take a shower. Instead read a book, watch TV, etc., somewhere where you'll be comfortable and safe if you fall asleep.

Good luck and best wishes!!!

Answer 4

These are now used for both terminal and non terminal pain. If the dose is higher than needed they will cause drowsiness, it may also occur for a short time when the dose is increased. There is now a smaller 12 patch which I often start with or use to titrate up. You have given little detail in your question so I hope my answer has been useful.

Answer 5

The fentanyl patch is a very strong narcotic and that is probably why you are drowsy.

Answer 6

fentanyl is normally used for breakthrough pain in people already taking opioids such as morphine etc. You may be on a too high dose of them as they come in different strengths, which will make you feel dizzy. As long as you dont start to have any trouble breathing it should settle.
You must be in a great deal of pain to be on them!!
Good luck xx

Answer 7

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Fentanyl.


More common side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, anxiety, confusion, constipation, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, exaggerated high spirits, hallucinations, headache, impaired or interrupted breathing, indigestion, itching, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness, shortness of breath, sleepiness, sweating, urinary retention, vomiting, weakness

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Answer 8

1

Answer 9

Because they are a narcotic. You may have too large of a dose. Maybe need to make some dose adjustments.