Drug Patch Dangers Often Minimized

Staff Writer

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The popularity of drug patches has led consumers and some health providers to ignore strong warnings about their side effects, even the lethal dangers associated with them. Fentanyl, a drug patch used for pain relief, has been specifically singled out by the FDA. In its July 2005 warning, the FDA urged exreme caution in prescribing this particular patch and it was never to be used to control post-operative pain. Yet, patients continue to die from the misuse of the patch.

Another such patch, the contraceptive OrthoEvra, has seen sales plunge since the FDA linked it to blood clots and potential lethal consequences.

In spite of these dangers, the patches are convenience and the drugs carried by them enter the bloodstream directly instead of through the stomach such as in the case of pills. However, as with many medical advances, there are some serious risks involved.