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Updated: May 13, 2026
10:13
Fentanyl Analog Screening using LC-TIMS-TOF MS/MS
Published on: November 8, 2024
Converting to transdermal fentanyl: avoidance of underdosing.
Amber M Bradley1, John M Valgus, Stephen Bernard
1University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Augusta, GA 30912, USA. abradley@gru.edu
Journal of Palliative Medicine
|March 13, 2013
Summary
Opioid conversion to transdermal fentanyl patches can be confusing, leading to underdosing. Current recommendations require reevaluation for safe and effective chronic pain management with fentanyl patches.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Practice
Background:
- Opioid conversion presents challenges for practitioners.
- Inconsistent recommendations for transdermal fentanyl patch conversion cause confusion and dosing errors.
Purpose of the Study:
- Describe inconsistencies in opioid conversions to transdermal fentanyl.
- Provide recommendations for safe and effective transdermal fentanyl use in chronic pain.
Main Methods:
- Review of available literature on opioid conversion ratios.
- Analysis of current clinical practice guidelines for transdermal fentanyl.
Main Results:
- Reports support a 1:3 intravenous to oral morphine ratio for transdermal fentanyl conversion.
- Underdosing is a common issue when switching to transdermal fentanyl.
Conclusions:
- Current transdermal fentanyl conversion recommendations are outdated.
- Reevaluation of conversion guidelines is necessary to align with clinical practice and prevent underdosing.
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