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[Fentanyl tea]
Søren Søberg Darling1, Rikke Mærkedahl
1Kirkebyvej 26, 7100 Vejle. sorendarling@gmail.com.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|October 29, 2014
Summary
Abusing fentanyl patches by drinking them causes severe opioid overdose. This requires prolonged intensive care and repeated naloxone treatment due to extensive fentanyl absorption.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid analgesic.
- Abuse of fentanyl transdermal patches, though rare, presents unique challenges.
Observation:
- A patient presented with unconsciousness, convulsions, and respiratory insufficiency after consuming hot tea with two fentanyl patches.
- The patient required intubation and repeated administrations of naloxone for opioid toxicity.
Findings:
- Ingesting fentanyl patches leads to rapid and extensive absorption of the drug.
- The absorbed dose can overwhelm the effects of naloxone, necessitating prolonged medical intervention.
Implications:
- This case highlights the severe risks associated with fentanyl patch abuse via ingestion.
- Extended intensive care unit monitoring is crucial for patients experiencing fentanyl overdose from patch abuse.