Problems with Duragesic patches due to recall

April 30, 2004

Hi y'all,

The recall of duragesic patches has had a snowball effect.

Since the 75 mg. patches were recalled, and then a later test

revealed the same leakage problems with the 100 mg. patches,

finding duragesic patches to fill one's prescription has been a

dilema in SC. I'm sure it's effected all other area's as well.

After meeting with my PM doctor yesterday I went to my pharmacy

to have my scripts filled. The doctor had wisely written the script

for a month's supply of 50 mg. patches and 25 mg. patches, to

combine to reach the amount of 75 mgs., which is what I need.

My pharmacist was only able to give me one box of the 50's,

instead of two, which is what I need to make up a month's

supply. While I was discussing the problem of finding enough

duragesic patches with him, he received two calls from other

pharmacies trying to find 50 mg. patches. He'd given me the last

box he had in stock, and an I.O.U. for the second box, whenever

he could get it in stock.... " maybe " next week. He said that now

that the 75 and 100 mg. patches had been recalled, there was a

feverous demand for the 50's, and they had gone into short

supply.

If necessary, I'll have to get my doctor to rewrite my script for

three 25 mg. patches to meet my dosage needs. I just wanted to

give any of you that are using duragesic patches this head's up.

When you go to have your script filled, depending upon your

dosage, it may be wise to have your doctor be inventive in his

script writing. What I do suggest for anyone needing a script

refill, is that they call their pharmacy FIRST, to see what the

pharmacy has in stock, and then have your doctor write the script

accordingly, substituting dosages if necessary, so that you're

able to get the amounts you need.

With love, hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

South Carolina

SC & SE Regional Rep.

PAI

Note: All comments or advice are personal opinion only, and

should not be substituted for professional medical consultation.

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