Multiple risks for patients using the transdermal fentanyl patch.

The transdermal drug administration system, commonly known as “the patch,” is a convenient method to administer certain drugs that work best when steady therapeutic blood levels are maintained over time. The scopolamine patch is widely used for prevention of seasickness and is gaining popularity as an extra antinausea safeguard in select patients who need more than the traditional drugs such as ondansetron and dexamethasone to help prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting. Likewise, nicotine patches are popular to help prevent signs and symptoms of nicotine withdrawal associated with acute cessation of cigarette smoking. Patients with severe intractable chronic pain and those suffering relentless pain from a terminal illness who need but may not be able to tolerate high doses of oral opioids can benefit from the use of the transdermal fentanyl system.