Drug absorption from a patch can be dangerously increased by heat
August 2005
Drug absorption from a patch can be dangerously increased by heat...from sunbathing, heating pads, exercise, even a fever.
A fever of 40°C can potentially increase Duragesic (fentanyl) levels by one-third. Heat can also shorten the duration of action...from three days to two.
Warm skin allows more drug to be absorbed by increasing blood flow and skin permeability.
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