Fentanyl Patch Tapering

I've been on Fentanyl 25mcg every 48 hours for 3 1/2 years and want taper off. I'm finding it hard to stretch them to 72 hours, only made it to 60 hours. Also take 4-5 Norco 10/325. I'm wondering if it's possible to trim my Mylan patches to 2/3-3/4 in size to start tapering. I'm thinking of asking my pain management Dr to reduce dose to 12.5 at next appt in 2 weeks but want to start tapering ASAP.

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Hello, John! How are you?

No, it is not safe to cut the patches to try and do that. That could actually cause you to absorb too much of the narcotic, at once, which could cause an overdose, since this is a very potent narcotic. This is a narcotic analgesic, so it has the potential to be habit forming and may cause side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth and constipation.

Your doctor should be able to help you set up a proper and safe tapering schedule, which might include using other medications to wean off of the patches.

Are there any other questions or concerns?

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Hello. I've seen your name in other threads and am wondering what your qualifications are. I've seen a few people say that they have cut down the Mylan patches to taper. It seems to make sense as there is no gel area and the dosage is determined by the size of the patches. No disrespect intended but there is information on this site that contradicts what you are telling me. I'm just looking for the right answer as I want to get off this drug. I know my PM nurse would write me a script lowering me patches from 25mcg to 12.5 mcg but I'm worried that would be too large a reduction. Thanks for responding.

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I'm just trying to help!

But just because people have cut the patches doesn't mean it is safe to do so.

I did check the Mylan site and they don't provide such information, they just link to the general patch information on another site, which directs one to gradually taper down to the lower dose of 12.5 by lowering by half every six days.

Unless switching to another opiate.

What method has your doctor advised? Have you consulted them, yet?

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