Fatal intravenous misuse of transdermal fentanyl

Med J Aust. 2002 Nov 18;177(10):552-3. doi: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2003.tb05342.x.

Abstract

The introduction of a transdermal delivery system for fentanyl means that it is now more readily available. We present the first documented fatality after intravenous injection of the contents of a transdermal fentanyl patch. Prescribers need to be aware of the potential for misuse of fentanyl patches.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Adult
  • Analgesics, Opioid / poisoning*
  • Blood Gas Analysis
  • Drug Overdose
  • Emergency Treatment / methods
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Fentanyl / poisoning*
  • Heart Arrest / chemically induced*
  • Heart Arrest / metabolism
  • Heart Arrest / therapy
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Substance Abuse Detection
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous / complications*
  • Unconsciousness / chemically induced*
  • Unconsciousness / metabolism
  • Unconsciousness / therapy

Substances

  • Analgesics, Opioid
  • Fentanyl