Is it safe to use Fentanyl patches in the hot summer?

Answer 1

You can, but you must be aware and extremely careful that you don't become overheated (body temperature) or let a patch become exposed to sunlight. The patch dosage is regulated by body heat, and if core body temperature rises or if the patch is heated externally, the dosage delivery rate increases significantly. If you're not aware of what's happening or what to do, you can easily find yourself in a confused or delirious state, or worse if you're not that tolerant to high doses of opiates.

It's important to understand the effects to recognize the symptoms when they first occur, and to also educate family/friends on what to do if you start acting confused and it appears you're overheated. While it affects each person differently, I can only describe it as like being in a loop you're stuck in but can't get out of. You know what's happening, but your mind can't process enough to help yourself. Feeling completely helpless is a good description.

In such instances, the key is to both cool down your core body temp, and to remove the patch immediately (you can reattach it later as long as you don't fold it over on itself) to stop the dosage delivery through the skin. It takes about an hour or so before you're feeling fairly normal.

Over the years, it's happened to me several times when working around the house when it's hot during the summer, and it overtakes you pretty fast if you're not aware of what's happening. I have an extremely high opiate tolerance, so respiratory depression has never been a factor for me, but the mental confusion that comes with it is very unnerving to say the least. If it comes at a really bad time (operating equipment or driving) it can be much worse for you and others.

If you're working outside, make sure the patch is covered by clothing so it's not in direct sunlight, and that you keep well hydrated to maintain normal body temperature. Don't forget that increased activity will increase sweating, so if you've got problems keeping your patches on keep that in mind as well.