Duragesic is a pain patch that is worn on the skin as a topical treatment for chronic pain. The Duragesic patch contains a narcotic analgesic called fentanyl. The Duragesic patch allows medicine to be absorbed slowly through the skin at a constant rate for up to three days. The patches come in different strengths, and more than one patch may be worn at a time.

Johnson & Johnson has announced a voluntary recall of a popular version of their Duragesic pain patch. About 32 million patches sold by PriCara,a unit of J & J, are being recalled due to concerns that a defect could expose patients to excess doses of the powerful opioid, fentanyl, leading to respiratory difficulties and even death.