Black Box Warnings for Duragesic Pain Patches

Black box warnings are prescription-drug cautions that are so serious they're displayed on black-bordered boxes on package inserts. These are warnings that if ignored could potentially lead to very serious health consequences, including death. Unfortunately, black box warnings are sometimes overlooked by physicians. In a recent study, doctors ignored the black box warning in fully two-thirds of patients who were given a drug.

The black box warning for Duragesic pain patches and the drug fentanyl indicates that it could be a serious danger for some patients. It states that the drug should only be used for patients who are tolerant to opioid drugs and who are suffering from moderate to severe chronic pain. Safety for fentanyl and Duragesic pain patches has not been established in children less than two years old, suggesting potentially dangerous complications when used by young children. Additionally, life threatening breathing problems can occur in certain situations among patients of any age.

You deserve the best medical treatment and you have the right to be fully aware of the side effects of any drug you are prescribed. Black box warnings for Duragesic pain patches should not be taken lightly - there are potentially fatal consequences if these stated guidelines are not adhered to. If you are experiencing any harmful side effects from Duragesic pain patches, inform your doctor as soon as possible.