General key messages
- Opioid patches are only suitable for stable pain and in certain circumstances (see below)
- Fentanyl patches are not suitable for opioid naïve patients due to their potency
- As transdermal opioid preparations are not interchangeable, patients should remain on the same preparation, prescribed by brand name
- Where specified brand is not available, to avoid missed doses, an alternative brand can be considered. Monitor closely for loss of pain control/opioid toxicity