Excellent information. I have used the Duragesic Patch and now it's generic form: Fentanyl Transdermal System, since January 9, 2002 without ill effects. I am using 125mcg/hr and changing them every 48 hours.
The fentanyl in these patches is many times more potent than morphine (I believe Mrsd can verify this) yet I am not addicted - dependent, yes; addicted: NO...and there is a huge difference in the two. I have driven my car since the beginning of using this med and have had no accidents or tickets and I have literally driven from one end of the country to the other. I am able to function normally...my hands are steady, my eyes are clear with normal pupils, and I function normally in every respect. I even walk a mile or two every day! The point is - people with true chronic moderate to severe pain rarely ever have a problem with opioid use. Addiction can happen but it's extremely rare...less than 1 percent though some will argue it can be as high as 3 percent. Either way - this means 97 to 99 percent never become addicted....a percentage I can live with.
I am now 76 years old and my doc and I will continue to use this medication for my pain management until a cure is found or my life ends. My untreated pain on the Mankowski Pain Scale is rated a 7 to 9.5 and my treated pain levels are a low 2 to 4. I have become so accustomed to the 2 to 4 levels that I now virtually ignore it. I feel fortunate and blessed that this medication works for me and my wish is that all sufferers of chronic pain can find a med that will work this well for them. I am convinced that whatever one uses it must be titrated for maxium relief and in the blood stream 24/7/365.
Good luck to everyone.

The issue is not all docs will put you on long term opiates. That is why for me they want a spinal cord stimulator. I am not a pill person.When I went to Cleveland Clinic they said I had to stop vicodin and I quit that day and have taken it a few times only in 9 months. I wait to the last possible moment where I am in crying pain to take but I do feel that quality of life is important. Most of these stars and of course not all but also have addictions to other drugs. That most and I say most people in chronic high pain take meds to give them a better more comfortable life. Dan I really always like your story. Not that you are in pain but that you found something to help you. It gives hope.