Augie, it is just a minor technicality but I thought I would mention that the 125 mcg amount that you make reference to would be the amount (I presume) that is released into your system every hour (as opposed to every 72 hours as suggested in your post), when the medication is delivered at the maximum rate for which the particular patch dosage is intended. The patches for many people tend to release a lesser amount on the third day than that which is indicated on the packaging, and for that reason, some doctors will prescribe the patches to be replaced every other day (ie. every 48 hours) instead of every three days (72 hours).

I should have mentioned in my prior post that the more consistent release of medication for some people over a two day period took place with the original Duragesic patch design which held the medication as a liquid in a "pouch" section, while the delivery system has since been improved so as to hold the fentanyl within the membranes of a matrix-like film for better, more even release. This newer version might in fact release the contents more consistently over a three day period (though I am not certain if that is in fact the case).

I have cervical spine problems, and have tried everything imaginable to get pain relief.

There are two things that do help me a little...

1. Biofreeze. It's only sold at physiotherapist and chiropractic offices, and it's not cheap, but it does work. It's an analgesic pain gel (way stronger than icy hot and all the over the counter options)

2. Obus Form Cervical Pillow. I spent a little extra money, but well worth it. The cervical pillow (which has 4 positions and sides depending how you sleep) is great for the neck and back. I will never use another pillow again.

Although it doesn't take the pain away, it does help make you more comfortable and help you cope with pain. the Biofreeze will give you a chance to relax your muscles. Mediation also helps.

I use Biofreeze daily. I recently found it on the Amazon website. It was considerably cheaper than my chiropractor's office.

As for pain relief, Biofreeze is my first go-to.

Thanks, everyone, for responding. I have tried Biofreeze many times and unfortunately, I haven't gotten any relief from it. I looked at that Obus pillow.. it actually looks almost exactly like mine only with half the functionality. Mine only has one side/texture.. but it does have the varying heights depending on which way it is turned.. and it is... I think it is memory foam. It is a great pillow.. the best one I have ever found/used. I wrote the name down, because someday this one will eventually need to be replaced (probably not very soon, but I'm guessing if I live to be 80, it won't last 56 more years). I appreciate all the responses.

I was also on the patch. It worked for awhile then it quite working. Now I'm on Oxyicotin 80mg x 2 daily for my pain and I feel so much better. I'm never pain free but, this makes it alot better.
Sharon

That's good.

I was on the fentanyl patch (well, still am) and oxycodone.. but I stopped taking the oxycodone on Friday and switched to Tylenol #4.

I have found acupuncture to be very effective, although the effects are not long lasting.