Started using the Fentanyl Patch but breakthru meds are not working that well.Any suggestions...

I've started using the fentanyl patches on Dec 21,2012 (2-100mcg every 48hr's. For a total of 200mcg's every 48hr's) I was approved for 30-patches every 30 days. The first 2 days were a slight disaster. I lost 4 patches due to them falling off within 10hr's of placing them on my chest.(Dr recommended the chest and arms )So I put 2 patches on my right arm then after 48hrs I would switch to the left arm. (Before placing the patches I would clean with 91%Alcohol NOT 70% then wait until dry and then clean with clear water)This has worked great. The patches stick great no matter what I do.

I was also prescribed 30mg ir morphine x4 pills daily. but I've noticed that the MS IR just don't work. I cant' use oxycodone because of the up-coming joint replacements. I need the oxy's to take post op. Any other medication suggestions would be greatly appreciated.. Thanks again Randy

Randy,

The only thing that comes to mind is maybe hydromorphone (dilaudid).

Take care... and hope you find something that works. --Tina

I would think that you are definitely a candidate for the pain pump at this point...I remember it was last year that they already mentioned this to you and if you are not getting any pain relief from all the medication you are on at such high levels...I can't see what else they could try..The concern with the amount of Fentanyl and Morphine you are on is respiratory issues with someone like yourself with severe COPD...

I'm pretty sure you were just on the Dilaudid IR with your Exalgo just a few months ago and you said that you had too many side effects as well as it didn't work at all for you...

So, if anyone is ready for the pain pump...I would think it would be you and they would easily ok this...

I would actually be looking at a different Dr. since this one has been so random with all the med changes in the last months with giving you these bogus excuses one day and then reversing it the next..That, along with how you are saying that you are the one to suggest meds to her...that would have greatly worried about their knowledge and care...

Just some thoughts...but it seems as if you have come to the end of the road for regular meds...

I wish you luck..