How can you convert an intrathecal dosage of fentanyl into the equivalent patch dosage?

Can be tricky: Converting from intr-thecal fentanyl to fentanyl patch may be tricky. You have to work closely with your pain management doctor. There are lots of pitfalls and close follow-up and frequent change in plan is anticipated. Although they are the same medication, the delivery system is completely different making it hard to predict what will work for you.

Fentanyl: Although intrathecal fentanyl may have systemic effects, it will act differently than if systemically administered. While the intrathecal goes on the local nerve endings as a local anesthetic, the systemic goes to the central nervous system through blood. Intrathecally we use 10micrograms, in the blood 100 micrograms and much more for the chronic user. Less side effects intrathecally (small dose).