Defective fentanyl pain patch recalled. Got lawsuit?

Defective 50 mcg/hr fentanyl pain patches recalled

Do You Have a Pain Patch Lawsuit?

PriCara,® Division of Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., announced on December 31, 2008, that one lot of 50 mcg/hr fentanyl patches sold by Sandoz Inc. were recalled due to a defect in some of the pain patches. The defect was purportedly caused by the manufacturing equipment. The company says the equipment has since been corrected.

The problem could cause a possible release of fentanyl gel from the gel reservoir into the pouch which would directly expose patients or caregivers to the dangerous opioid fentanyl gel.

In 2008, a lawyer settled a $16.5 million jury verdict for the family of a woman, who died when her Duragesic pain patch leaked and caused a fatal overdose of fentanyl. In 2007, a law firm received a $5.5 million jury verdict for the family of a 20-something male who died while wearing a Duragesic fentanyl drug patch.

Fentanyl is often used in cancer therapy and other chronic pain management due to its effectiveness in relieving pain. There is no known opioid stronger than Fentanyl in reducing cancer pain, which makes it the first choice for use in cancer patients. Duragesic patches release fentanyl into body fats, which slowly release into the blood stream over two to three days allowing for long lasting pain relief. The typical pain patch will take effect under normal circumstances usually within 8-12 hours. Patches are available in generic form and for lower costs.

Other pain patch strengths – 12.5, 25, 75, and 100mcg/hr were not affected by this recall.

Has a loved one died from being exposed and overdosed by a pain patch? Please contact Monheit Law to find out if you and your family qualify for a wrongful death lawsuit.