Hi there,

Call the manufacturer of the patch to see if they provide overlays like tegaderm for free to use to keep the patches on. Some manufacturers like mylan actually do provide them. Otherwise, I can refer you to a place mylan referred me to while they had a shortage. I have comparison shopped, as I used overlays before mylan provided them, Mercy Surgical Dressing Group at 888-637-2912. You want to speak with Sherri who was at extension 202 before they changed phone systems.

They carry tegaderm as well as the ones I buy which cost less. They are called Hydrofilm and made by Hartmann. Sherri is a pro and will be able to take care of you for your husband's needs. I use the 4x5 inch overlay as I wear 4 separate 100mcg patches. They come smaller however. You will never have a problem with patches falling off if you use these. Also, your husband places the patch in an area where he has no hair or shaves the area, doesn't he? if not, this may be part of the problem.

As far as changing the patches more often than every 72 hours or 3 days, I can say for certainty, it is to your disadvantage to change them daily based on when the fentanyl dosage peaks. It makes no sense to do so, nor should you need to. However, there have been times where my dose has been different, but I changed the patches every other day, but this was under a doctor's order. In cases with certain climates (warmer usually) or with certain skin types, one may find the patch wears off too quickly and needs to be changed every 48 hours or 2 days. But, you must discuss the matter with your doctor first.

Best of luck to you all. If anyone else has questions about the patches, feel free to ask as I have been on a fentanyl patch for ten years now. Take care and be well.

Sincerely,
Callie Sloane