Fentanyl Pain Relieving Patches were recalled, because of a manufacturing defect that could cause overdose on fentanyl.

Sold as Duragesic by PriCara, this recall includes all 25-microgram-per-hour patches with expiration dates on or before December 2009.

Some of the patches, sold under the name brand Duragesic, may have a cut in the lining where the drug is held. If the fentanyl leaks into packaging, it could directly contact patients or caregivers. Fentanyl is a powerful "opioid" drug and an overdose could cause difficulty breathing and potentially be fatal.

Fentanyl is intended for chronic pain in people who's systems are used to taking narcotics. Cancer patients are commonly prescribed Duragesic / fentanyl, but has been prescribed for a wide variety of pain. The FDA found that some doctors prescribed it for headaches or post-surgical pain.

PriCara estimates that two patches out of every million included in the recall have the defect that causes the leak.

All of the patches were manufactured by PriCara affiliate ALZA Corp. PriCara is a division of Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

If you or someone you know has been prescribed Fentanyl, sold as Duragesic, discontinue use immediately and contact your doctor. You should also contact a Fentanyl Attorney to review your situation as you may be entitles to compensation for medical bills, and unnecessary pain and suffering.