Injection of fentanyl patches – a deadly route

Transdermal fentanyl therapeutic system was developed to provide continuous, controlled, systemic release of fentanyl. Modifying the route of administration of the drug by violating the appropriate, proposed medical method for the treatment regimen can be fatal. We present four (4) fatal cases of intravenous abuse of fentanyl transdermal patches, which took place in the wider region of Northern Greece in a short time period. We review the reported cases worldwide and emphasize the importance of public awareness for the prevention of fatalities.