The Fentanyl patch is one of the most powerful painkillers on the market, so you’d think that product quality would be of utmost importance. Sadly, Fentanyl product-quality problems caused 802 serious adverse events in 2012 alone, according to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP).
Product-quality problems include:
- Patch adhesion
- Poor quality of drug administration through patch
- Improper dosage/labeling
Unfortunately, product-quality problems aren’t the only danger frequently presented by Fentanyl (Duragesic). Of the 1,890 reported adverse events associated with Fentanyl in 2012, approximately 800 were caused by medication error.
Fentanyl patch medication errors involve situations where a drug is inappropriately prescribed, either by incorrect dosage or because it negatively interacts with another medication the patient is taking. Other medication mistakes occur when the patch is put in the wrong location or kept on for an incorrect amount of time.
Since it’s so potent, the Fentanyl patch may also expose patients to overdose, withdrawal symptoms, cardio-respiratory arrest and addiction.
Did Fentanyl Cause An Injury Or Death?
Hospitalization, surgery and other serious medical situations present an array of risks. If you or a loved one suffered serious harm while on a Fentanyl patch, your situation deserves an investigation. If the injury was caused by a Duragesic transdermal patch, you may be able to recover money damages.
The patch manufacturer, prescribing physician, staff member or hospital may be jointly or severally liable to you. Speak with an experienced medication error attorney to learn more.
McKeen & Associates, P.C. is a prominent injury firm focused on helping medical malpractice victims throughout the U.S. Contact us if you’d like to have a free, confidential discussion about your situation.
Source: Institute for Safe Medication Practices, “Quarter Watch: Leading Drug Safety Issues of 2012,” Oct. 17, 2013
