I used the patch for most of my treatment and for about 2 weeks afterward. I started at 25mcg and quickly worked my way up to a 100mcg. The only real side effect that was bothersome was constipation. The patch and the morphine that I used for break through pain blocked me up pretty bad. I did take laxatives and stool softners but it never got better until I got off the patch.

The patch and morphine did a good job controlling my pain. It also allowed me to sleep, which is what I wantede to do. If he does use the patch then just remeber to come off it slowly. Reducing by 25mcg over time is the the way to avoid withdrawal effects. I followed the advice of my Drs and folks on this board which were very similar.

Tim Stoj