Fentanyl Patches & Respiratory Depression

Attorney for Fentanyl Patch Injury & Death in Nashville

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic drug used to treat chronic pain. It can be extremely dangerous, however, when those who manufacture, prescribe, or fill a prescription for the drug fail to exercise proper care. When that happens, the resulting respiratory problems can be so severe that they can lead to a wrongful death.

At Kinnard, Clayton & Beveridge, our Nashville product liability attorneys are committed to pursuing full and fair compensation for the individuals who have been injured by a fentanyl patch—as well as those who lost loved ones to it. Because we are familiar with the scientific evidence that is needed to win cases such as these, we are uniquely prepared to handle them. Do not hesitate to contact us today if you would like to schedule a free, detailed consultation.

What Makes Fentanyl Patches Dangerous

Some doctors prescribe the fentanyl patch for use in a way that is not approved by the FDA. If off-label patches are used, the chances increase of the drug being used in contradiction to an explicit, boxed warning.

Patch misuse or abuse can cause serious injuries.

Even if doctors heed the warnings, there are other possible dangers with a fentanyl patch:

• Pharmaceutical companies sometimes manufacture the patches defectively, giving rise to a product liability claim when the defect causes injury or death. This can also give rise to a recall.
• Pharmacists also often dispense the patch without exercising due care.

Pharmacists and medical professionals should be held accountable when they fail to ask questions about whether fentanyl is appropriate for a particular patient—especially when the "black box warning" clearly states that it can potentially cause fatal respiratory depression. When a patient receives an excessive dose of fentanyl, it can lead to a condition called "hypoventilation," in which the respiratory rate slows down so much that the person stops breathing. The loss of oxygen can cause brain damage or can lead to a wrongful death.

Fight for Fair Compensation with Our Help. Call Today.

Let our team of Nashville defective drug lawyers help you pursue the compensation you need and deserve for a fentanyl patch injury. Our attorneys' credentials show a dedication to our clients' interests and respect among our peers. You can read more about their backgrounds on our attorney profiles page.

To schedule a detailed discussion of your fentanyl patch case with a straightforward and knowledgeable personal injury lawyer, contact our offices today.