Duragesic painkiller patches contain fentanyl have been recalled due to a flaw that could cause patients, or even caregivers, to overdose on the drug.
Sold by PriCara in the United States and generically by Sandoz Inc the recall includes all 25-micro-gram-per-hour patches that have an expiry date prior to December 2009.
The reason for the recall is that some patches may have a cut in the lining of the internal reservoir, the area where the gel form of the drug is stored, and could leak. Should leaking occur it is possible for the patient or a caregiver come in direct contact with the gel. The result of direct contact could be difficulty breathing and a potentially fatal overdose.
The cut in the resevoir is easily seen upon opening and should a cut be detected the patch should be immediately flushed down the toilet and not handled. Exposed skin should be thoroughly rinsed with water but not washed with soap.
For details on the recall of Duragesic pateches sold by PriCara contact: 800-547-6446.
Generic patches sold by Sandoz the contact number is: 800-901-7236
Patches in Canada were also recalled under the brand name Duragesic by Janssen-Ortho and generically by Ranxbary Laboratories.
[Source: YahooNews]
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