Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, recently announced the recall of two lots of 50 mcg Duragesic pain patches. The recall is for Duragesic 50 mcg/hr patches, lot number 0817239 and Sandoz Inc. 50 mcg/hr patches, lot number 0816851.
The recall is the result of a cut-system defect in some of the patches. Cuts in the defective patches could provide patients with direct exposure to the fentanyl gel inside the patch. Direct exposure to fentanyl gel can cause serious side effects in patients, including respiratory depression. An overdose of the gel may be fatal.
Patients who have come into contact with fentanyl gel should wash the exposed skin with water only. Using any other substance to clean the affected area may increase the gel’s absorption by the skin.
This is just another episode in a long line of problems associated with the fentanyl pain patches over the past few years. Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has already lost several multimillion dollar defective drug and wrongful death lawsuits related to fatal overdoses of fentanyl.
If you have been injured by exposure to fentanyl gel, it is important to contact an experienced defective drug attorney at once. You may be eligible to receive compensation for your damages.
If you have a pharmaceutical injury claim in the Denver, Colorado area, please contact the Law Offices of Burg, Simpson, Eldredge, Hersh & Jardine, P.C. today to schedule a consultation.
