Fentanyl is a potent narcotic drug that is similar to morphine, but 80 to 100 times stronger. It is a synthetic opioid, often used to treat severe or chronic pain in patients experiencing serious illness.
Unfortunately, doctors have been negligently prescribing fentanyl to patients, resulting in people becoming addicted or dying. Doctors are responsible for prescribing medications in a safe manner.
Common negative side effects of fentanyl include:
- Decreased heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Weak muscles
- Confusion
- Extreme sleepiness
- Pinpoint pupils
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Bluish tint to their lips and nails
- Low blood pressure
- Dangerously slowed or stopped breathing
Due to the substantial risks and dangers associated with fentanyl, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the medication for acute postoperative pain in patients. Even though it has not been approved for short-term usage, many physicians still prescribe it for pain management when an individual breaks a bone or even develops acid reflux post-surgery.
Being on other medications or having a specific preexisting medical condition can result in higher risks when taking fentanyl. Another risk that doctors often ignore, prescribing patients with fentanyl without preexisting opioid tolerance, which can cause in a patient’s death after trying the drug just once if a physician prescribes a dosage that is too potent.
If you or a loved one has been harmed by a doctor who has been negligent due to a prescription error, contact our Weston medical malpractice attorney at Rash Mueller. and request a case evaluation today.