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Short course prednisolone asthma — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardRespiratory TherapeuticsShort course prednisolone asthmaGPhC CRA

A patient using a fentanyl patch develops fever of 39.4°C and becomes unusually drowsy. Which mechanism makes this urgent?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: BHeat can increase transdermal fentanyl absorption

Raised body temperature and external heat can increase fentanyl delivery through the skin. New drowsiness may therefore signal opioid toxicity and needs urgent clinical assessment, patch review and respiratory monitoring. Patients should avoid heat sources over the patch and understand overdose warning signs.

Reference: https://www.gov.uk/drug-safety-update/transdermal-fentanyl-patches-life-threatening-and-fatal-opioid-toxicity-from-accidental-exposure-particularly-in-children