Severe respiratory depression and sedation with transdermal fentanyl: four case studies

@article{Regnard2003SevereRD,
  title={Severe respiratory depression and sedation with transdermal fentanyl: four case studies},
  author={Claud Regnard and Anne Pelham},
  journal={Palliative Medicine},
  year={2003},
  volume={17},
  pages={714 - 716}
}
We have seen four patients with advanced cancer on transdermal (TD) fentanyl (Durogesic) develop delayed and severe respiratory depression. These cases occurred within a two-year period; three in a 15-bed specialist palliative care unit and the fourth in a nearby teaching hospital. The four cases are of concern since past and recent studies have suggested that respiratory depression with TD fentanyl is uncommon and mild. ,2 
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