Becca - more info on the pain patches

February 23, 2005

Oh, Becca, that's fantastic news! I hope the patch brings him the

relief he so desperately needs! What dosage did they start him on?

He may find that the patches cause him some itching at the site. If

he does, go out and buy some OTC Benadryl spray antihistimine, and

have him lightly spray the site where he's going to apply the patch.

Wait about 5 minutes for the spray to dry, and then apply the patch.

The antihistime will keep the site from itching. The manufacturer's

say that the patch is most effective if applied ABOVE the waistline on

a flat part of the body. I put mine on my upper back, or shoulder.

He may also find that the patches have a tendency to come loose in the

shower. You CANNOT reapply the patch if it comes off. To prevent

this from happening, the manufacturer's furnish a clear adhesive

overfilm, called " Bioclusive " , that's applied over the patch. They

will send him a FREE supply of this overfilm to use for as long as

Mark uses the patches.

Janssen Pharmaceuticals are the manufacturer's of the Duragesic Patch,

and they are the ones who furnish the Bioclusive film. If you call

their patient action center number 1-, 9:00 AM - 5 PM EST,

Monday - Friday, and tell them that you need the adhesive film to help

keep the patches on, they'll send you a supply immediately. I spent a

fortune on drug store bandages trying to find one that would cover the

patch and stick well enough, before I found out about the Bioclusive

film. It sticks so well that water cannot get through it, ruining the

effectiveness of the medication, and it won't come off on it's own

until you have to pull it off.

If there's anything else I can help you with, don't hesitate. It's so

good to know that Mark is finally heading in the right direction for

relief and treatment.

With love, hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

South Carolina State Rep.

South Eastern Regional Rep.

PAI

Note: All comments or advice are based on personal experience or

opinion, and should not be substituted for professional medical

consultation.

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