What is Duragesic?
Duragesic, known generically as the fentanyl transdermal system, is marketed by Janssen Pharmaceutica Products, L.P., a subsidiary of Johnson and Johnson. Duragesic is a pain medication in the form of a patch that is attached to the skin of the patient. The patch contains a strong narcotic, fentanyl, which is a Schedule II opioid agonist. Fentanyl is contained in the patch in the form of a gel, and this pain medication is absorbed through the patient’s skin. Duragesic is prescribed for individuals who suffer from long periods of chronic pain, possibly exceeding a few weeks or longer, and who require strong pain medication around the clock. Duragesic was the first painkiller patch to receive approval in 1990.