Skip to main content

Fentanyl Transdermal System

Generic name: Fentanyl Transdermal SystemFEN-ta-nil ]
Brand name: Ionsys
Drug class: Opioids (narcotic analgesics)

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 21, 2024.

Warning

  • You must be the only person to use fentanyl transdermal system. Be sure no one else touches the system or the drug inside it. This medicine is only for use if you are in a hospital. If you are leaving the hospital, make sure that fentanyl transdermal system is removed before you leave. Talk with your doctor.
  • This medicine may cause very bad and sometimes deadly breathing problems. Call your doctor right away if you have slow, shallow, or trouble breathing.
  • The chance of very bad and sometimes deadly breathing problems may be greater when you first start fentanyl transdermal system or anytime your dose is raised.
  • Even one dose of fentanyl transdermal system may be deadly if it is taken by someone else or by accident, especially in children. If fentanyl transdermal system is taken by someone else or by accident, get medical help right away.
  • Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
  • This medicine is a strong pain drug that can put you at risk for addiction, abuse, and misuse. Misuse or abuse of fentanyl transdermal system can lead to overdose and death. Talk with your doctor.
  • You will be watched closely to make sure you do not misuse, abuse, or become addicted to fentanyl transdermal system.
  • This medicine has an opioid drug in it. Severe side effects have happened when opioid drugs were used with benzodiazepines or other drugs that may make you drowsy or slow your actions. This includes slow or troubled breathing and death. Benzodiazepines include drugs like alprazolam, diazepam, and lorazepam. Benzodiazepines may be used to treat many health problems like anxiety, trouble sleeping, or seizures. If you have questions, talk with your doctor.
  • Many drugs interact with fentanyl transdermal system and can raise the chance of side effects like deadly breathing problems. Talk with your doctor and pharmacist to make sure it is safe to use fentanyl transdermal system with all of your drugs.
  • Do not take with alcohol or products that have alcohol. Unsafe and sometimes deadly effects may happen.
  • Get medical help right away if you feel very sleepy, very dizzy, or if you pass out. Caregivers or others need to get medical help right away if the patient does not respond, does not answer or react like normal, or will not wake up.
  • Using fentanyl transdermal system for a long time during pregnancy may lead to withdrawal in the newborn baby. This can be life-threatening. Talk with the doctor.

Uses of Fentanyl Transdermal System:

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Fentanyl Transdermal System?

This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with fentanyl transdermal system.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take fentanyl transdermal system with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Fentanyl Transdermal System?

How is this medicine (Fentanyl Transdermal System) best taken?

Use fentanyl transdermal system as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

What are some other side effects of Fentanyl Transdermal System?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Fentanyl Transdermal System?

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

Frequently asked questions

View more FAQ

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.