Health Canada to change the dose conversions from opioids to fentanyl patches

February 2009

Too many overdoses are prompting Health Canada to change the dose conversions from opioids to fentanyl patches.

Some patients are getting too much fentanyl when they're switched from IV morphine or hydromorphone to the patch.

For example, the 87 mcg fentanyl patch used to be recommended for patients on 60 mg/day of IV morphine or 8 mg/day of IV hydromorphone.

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Table of Contents

You'll see more patients with type 2 diabetes using insulin
Gastroenterology the dangers of sodium phosphate solutions for bowel prep
Neurology & Pain Health Canada to change the dose conversions from opioids to fentanyl patches
Interactions what to do when an antimicrobial is prescribed with warfarin
Women's Health Canadian guidelines will clarify some misconceptions about immunization during pregnancy
Women's Health fewer placebo pills with a new oral contraceptive called Yaz
Substance Use Disorder Instant cold packs are now being used to make methamphetamine
Rheumatoid Arthritis more aggressive use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for rheumatoid arthritis
Diabetes Patients with diabetes are asking if they should STOP taking a daily aspirin
Supplements People are getting lithium in the form of lithium orotate without a prescription
Supplements risks of using some supplements before or after surgery
Dermatology Stelara for chronic moderate to severe psoriasis
Practice significant new drugs approved by Health Canada in 2008 is ready for you