Fentanyl change of dose

[l1954]

I have used 75mcg fentanyl every 48hrs for almost a year and the prescribing md left the office and new md just changed it to every 72hrs.  He says that it doesn't make any difference if I use it every 48 or 72.  I know that is not okay with my body, but is to change or will I have withdrawl symptoms?

[TheMadMan]

I was on the Fentanly patch (50mcg) for almost a year. I used it as prescribed (changing the patch every 3 days) but started having side effects with my pancreas and all the pain medications I was taking. I talked to my doctor and he asked if I could add a day (changing the patch every 4 days). I agreed, cut down on my other pain medications and tried it. The morphine will build up in your system over time. Once your body gets used to the dosage, it usually remains in your system and you can TRY to add the extra day. Be aware that your system is dependent on this drug and each persons system is different. I did go the 4 days before changing the patch and eventually cut down to 25mcg over time. After that I went cold turkey to get off the patch because of the pancreatic problems my system was presenting. That is just me. The damaging effects of the Fentanyl patch may be something your doctor is concerned about. IF YOU DO NOT FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH THIS DOCTORS ADVISE, GET ANOTHER OPINION. Talk to a pain management specialist. You need to take the medication as prescribed and usually that is every 3 days before you change the patch. Anything other that what is prescribed is considered 'abusing' the medication and unless you have this information in writing, 'abusing' the medication may cause problems. Talk to other doctors about this information. The end result falls on the patient unless the doctor has 'ordered' otherwise.
Good luck and get proper medical advise before problems present itself.

[JamieEileen]

It is to be changed every 72 hours not every 48 hours. You are wasting your money changing it every 48 hours. It is made to change every 72 hours. I can not even understand why the first doc told you to change ot every 48 hours? You will be fine. It is hard to get a new doctor. Give him the benefit of the doubt. I used to be a hospice care taker.